Chorizo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash: A Flavorful Fall Feast
Spaghetti squash, with its naturally noodle-like strands, is a fantastic and healthy alternative to pasta. When combined with the rich, spicy flavors of chorizo, the result is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for autumn evenings. This Chorizo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe is not only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option that feels a little bit special. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Healthy and Delicious:** Spaghetti squash is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a guilt-free alternative to traditional pasta. The addition of chorizo provides protein and adds a burst of flavor, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
* **Easy to Make:** While it may seem intimidating, this recipe is surprisingly simple. The majority of the cooking time is hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Vegetarian? Substitute the chorizo with your favorite plant-based sausage. Want to add more vegetables? Bell peppers, onions, and spinach are all great additions.
* **Perfect for Fall:** The warm, comforting flavors of chorizo and roasted squash are perfect for cool autumn nights.
* **Impressive Presentation:** The stuffed squash halves make for a beautiful and impressive presentation, perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **1 large spaghetti squash (about 3-4 pounds)**: Choose a squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, unblemished skin.
* **1 pound chorizo sausage, removed from casings:** Opt for Mexican chorizo for an authentic flavor, or use Spanish chorizo for a smokier taste. You can also use turkey or chicken chorizo for a leaner option.
* **1 medium onion, chopped:** Yellow or white onion works well.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Fresh garlic is always best, but you can substitute with garlic powder if needed.
* **1 red bell pepper, chopped:** Adds sweetness and color.
* **1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained:** Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a smoky depth of flavor.
* **1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth):** Helps to deglaze the pan and adds moisture.
* **1 teaspoon chili powder:** Adds a mild kick.
* **1/2 teaspoon cumin:** Provides warmth and earthiness.
* **1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika:** Enhances the smoky flavor of the chorizo.
* **Salt and pepper to taste**
* **Optional toppings:** Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Mexican blend), sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, avocado.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large knife:** For cutting the spaghetti squash.
* **Cutting board**
* **Large skillet or Dutch oven:** For cooking the chorizo and vegetables.
* **Spoon or fork:** For scraping the spaghetti squash.
* **Baking sheet**
* **Oven**
Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
* Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. The skin of spaghetti squash can be quite tough, so be extra cautious. Use a sharp, sturdy knife and rock it back and forth to cut through the squash. You can also microwave the squash for a few minutes to soften it slightly before cutting.
* Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers from the center of each squash half using a spoon.
* Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with olive oil or cooking spray and season with salt and pepper.
* Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
* Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your squash. You’ll know it’s ready when the flesh is easily pulled apart with a fork.
**2. Cook the Chorizo and Vegetables:**
* While the squash is roasting, prepare the chorizo filling. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat.
* Remove the chorizo from its casings and crumble it into the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
* Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
* Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**3. Assemble the Stuffed Spaghetti Squash:**
* Once the spaghetti squash is cooked and slightly cooled, use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands, creating spaghetti-like noodles. Leave the strands inside the squash halves to keep their shape.
* Add the spaghetti squash strands to the skillet with the chorizo and vegetable mixture. Toss to combine well, ensuring that the squash is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
* Divide the chorizo and spaghetti squash mixture evenly between the two squash halves. Mound the filling slightly in the center.
**4. Bake (Optional):**
* For a more cheesy and bubbly finish, sprinkle the stuffed squash halves with shredded cheese.
* Return the stuffed squash halves to the baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
**5. Garnish and Serve:**
* Remove the stuffed spaghetti squash from the oven and let it cool slightly.
* Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, and avocado.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
* **Cutting the Squash:** As mentioned earlier, cutting spaghetti squash can be challenging. To make it easier, try microwaving the squash for 2-3 minutes to soften it slightly before cutting. Be sure to poke a few holes in the squash with a fork before microwaving to prevent it from exploding.
* **Chorizo Options:** You can use different types of chorizo depending on your preference. Mexican chorizo is typically made with pork and seasoned with chili powder and other spices. Spanish chorizo is cured and smoked, giving it a more intense flavor. For a leaner option, use turkey or chicken chorizo.
* **Vegetarian Option:** To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the chorizo with your favorite plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu. You can also add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
* **Add More Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the chorizo mixture. Bell peppers, onions, spinach, corn, and black beans are all great additions.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the spice level of the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less chili powder or omit it altogether. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
* **Cheese Options:** Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Mexican blend cheese are all great options for topping the stuffed squash. You can also use a combination of cheeses.
* **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the chorizo filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to assemble the stuffed squash, simply reheat the filling and proceed with the recipe.
* **Storage:** Leftover stuffed spaghetti squash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
* **Boost the Flavor:** A squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens the flavors of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
* Serve the Chorizo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash as a main course for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
* Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced dinner.
* Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
* Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of freshness.
* For a spicier kick, serve with a side of hot sauce or salsa.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
* Calories: 400-500
* Protein: 25-35g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g
* Fiber: 5-7g
(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Conclusion
This Chorizo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of fall. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of the sweet, noodle-like strands of spaghetti squash and the spicy, savory chorizo filling is simply irresistible. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience a culinary delight that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
Recipe Card
**Chorizo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash**
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 60 minutes
**Total time:** 1 hour 20 minutes
**Serves:** 2
**Ingredients:**
* 1 large spaghetti squash (about 3-4 pounds)
* 1 pound chorizo sausage, removed from casings
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Mexican blend), sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, avocado
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
2. Drizzle squash with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
4. While squash is roasting, cook chorizo in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease.
5. Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
7. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
8. Once squash is cooked, scrape the flesh into strands with a fork and add to the skillet with the chorizo mixture. Toss to combine.
9. Divide the mixture evenly between the two squash halves.
10. Sprinkle with shredded cheese (optional) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve.
**Notes:**
* Adjust spice level to your preference.
* Substitute chorizo with plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
* Add other vegetables as desired.
Enjoy this flavorful and healthy Chorizo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash!