Active Time:25 minsTotal Time:40 minsServings:4

Active Time:25 mins

Active Time:

25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Total Time:

40 mins

Servings:4

Servings:

4

Jump to recipe

Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen

These are the key tips we learned while developing and testing this recipe in our Test Kitchen to make sure it works, tastes great and is good for you too!

Nutrition Notes

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Prop Stylist: Lydia Pursell, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf

an image of the ingredients to make Spaghetti Squash Nests with Vodka Sauce, Broccoli & Chicken Meatballs

Cook Mode(Keep screen awake)Ingredients1largespaghetti squash(about 2½ pounds)¼cupextra-virgin olive oil2tablespoonsbasil pesto2½teaspoonsgarlic powder, divided1teaspoononion powder2cupsbite-sizebroccoli florets2cupslower-sodiumvodka sauce12 frozen fully cooked Italian-stylechicken meatballs(9ounces)¼teaspooncrushed red pepper¼cupwhole-milk ricotta cheeseSmall freshbasil leavesfor garnish (optional)

Cook Mode(Keep screen awake)

Ingredients

1largespaghetti squash(about 2½ pounds)

¼cupextra-virgin olive oil

2tablespoonsbasil pesto

2½teaspoonsgarlic powder, divided

1teaspoononion powder

2cupsbite-sizebroccoli florets

2cupslower-sodiumvodka sauce

12 frozen fully cooked Italian-stylechicken meatballs(9ounces)

¼teaspooncrushed red pepper

¼cupwhole-milk ricotta cheese

Small freshbasil leavesfor garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Trim squash ends and cut the squash crosswise into 4 equal rounds (about 1½ inches thick). Scoop out and discard the seeds.

an image of the squash being prepared for baking

Combine ¼ cup oil, 2 tablespoons pesto, 2 teaspoons garlic powder and 1 teaspoon onion powder in a small bowl. Place the squash rounds and 2 cups broccoli on the prepared baking sheet; drizzle with the oil mixture, rubbing the oil and seasonings onto the broccoli. Arrange the vegetables in an even layer. Roast until the broccoli is browned and tender, about 20 minutes. Transfer the broccoli to a plate. Return the squash to the oven; roast until tender, 10 to 15 minutes more.

Meanwhile, combine 2 cups vodka sauce, 12 meatballs, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper and the remaining ½ teaspoon garlic powder in a medium saucepan; cover and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through, about 15 minutes.

Use a fork to separate the squash strands in the center of each ring to create a “nest.” Spoon about ¼ cup broccoli and 3 meatballs into each squash nest; divide the sauce among the nests. Dollop with ¼ cup ricotta. Garnish with basil, if desired.

an image of the Spaghetti Squash Nests with Vodka Sauce, Broccoli & Chicken Meatballs

Nutrition InformationServing Size: 1 squash nestCalories 390, Fat 26g, Saturated Fat 6g, Cholesterol 57mg, Carbohydrates 25g, Total Sugars 8g, Added Sugars 0g, Protein 16g, Fiber 5g, Sodium 481mg, Potassium 545mg

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 squash nestCalories 390, Fat 26g, Saturated Fat 6g, Cholesterol 57mg, Carbohydrates 25g, Total Sugars 8g, Added Sugars 0g, Protein 16g, Fiber 5g, Sodium 481mg, Potassium 545mg

Serving Size: 1 squash nest

Calories 390, Fat 26g, Saturated Fat 6g, Cholesterol 57mg, Carbohydrates 25g, Total Sugars 8g, Added Sugars 0g, Protein 16g, Fiber 5g, Sodium 481mg, Potassium 545mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Any leftovers can be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 4 days.

This spaghetti squash recipe is already a meal on its own, but it would be extra comforting paired with a cup of ourSlow-Cooker Mushroom Soup with Sherry,Smoked Gouda-Broccoli Soup,Cauliflower SouporLeek & Potato Soup.

EatingWell.com, November 2024

Rate ItPrint

Carrie Myers, M.S.

andLinda Frahm

Linda Frahm