Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Published: September 16, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy Alternative: Spaghetti squash provides a nutritious substitute for traditional pasta, making it low in carbs.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun texture of spaghetti squash, making it a hit for the whole family.
Versatile Dish: Customize your carbonara by adding extra vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Rich Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon and garlic gives this dish a savory depth that satisfies cravings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious spaghetti squash carbonara, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Fork
Skillet
Mixing bowl
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: A baking sheet is crucial for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly, ensuring it cooks perfectly.
Skillet: A large skillet helps to combine all ingredients effectively without overcrowding, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Fork: Using a fork to shred the squash into strands is essential for achieving that iconic spaghetti-like texture.

Ingredients

To make this delicious spaghetti squash carbonara, gather the following ingredients:

For the Spaghetti Squash

4 Pounds Spaghetti Squash (about 2 small or 1 large)

For the Carbonara Sauce

2 Egg Yolks (room temperature)
2 Eggs (room temperature)
4 oz Parmesan (finely grated)

For the Protein and Flavor

12 ounces Turkey Turkey Bacon (roughly chopped; you can also use turkey strips or guanciale)
3 Cloves Garlic (minced)

Seasoning and Garnish

1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
Parsley (chopped to serve)

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Optionally, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Place each half flesh side down on your prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven until fork-tender, about 30-45 minutes depending on size.

Step 3: Shred the Squash

Once cooked, flip the spaghetti squash halves over and let them cool slightly. Use a fork to scrape out the flesh into strands resembling spaghetti.

Step 4: Whisk Together Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together room temperature eggs, egg yolks, and finely grated parmesan until well combined. Set aside.

Step 5: Cook Turkey Bacon and Garlic

Heat a skillet over medium heat, ensuring it’s large enough for all ingredients.
Add chopped turkey bacon and sauté until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
Add shredded spaghetti squash and salt; toss everything to coat evenly.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients Off Heat

Remove the skillet from heat completely. Using tongs, gently toss in the egg mixture while continuously mixing with the spaghetti squash until creamy.

Step 7: Serve

Plate your spaghetti squash carbonara with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and additional parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Spaghetti squash carbonara is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and a burst of flavor.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil complements the smokiness and enhances the overall aroma.

Topped with Extra Cheese

Parmesan Shavings: Add extra finely grated Parmesan for a rich cheesy finish.
Pecorino Romano: A sprinkle of this sharp cheese offers an interesting twist and depth.

Accompanied by a Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the carbonara.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing pairs wonderfully with the flavors in the dish.

Served in Individual Bowls

Rustic Bowls: Presenting the dish in rustic bowls adds charm and makes it feel special for guests.
Pre-portioned Plates: For easy serving, portion out the carbonara before serving to control servings.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

To achieve the best spaghetti squash carbonara, following a few key tips can make all the difference. Here’s how to enhance your dish:

Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps create a creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti squash beautifully without scrambling.
Cook Turkey Bacon Crispy: Ensure your turkey bacon is crispy for texture contrast and smoky flavor.
Don’t Overcook Spaghetti Squash: Monitor closely while baking; overcooked squash can become mushy instead of tender.
Mix Off Heat: Tossing the eggs with the squash off heat prevents them from cooking too quickly, resulting in a silky sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Pairing side dishes with your spaghetti squash carbonara can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your plate.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers crunch and balances the meal’s richness.
Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs well with carbonara.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that complements the creamy pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

Ignoring the temperature of ingredients: Using cold eggs can result in a less creamy sauce. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for the best texture.
Overcooking the spaghetti squash: If you cook the squash too long, it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it while baking; it should be fork-tender but still hold its shape.
Skipping the tossing step: Failing to toss the spaghetti squash with the egg mixture off the heat can lead to scrambled eggs. Be sure to remove the pan from heat before mixing in the eggs.
Not seasoning adequately: A lack of salt can make your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to enhance flavors.
Using low-quality cheese: Cheap Parmesan won’t give you that rich flavor. Opt for finely grated fresh Parmesan for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara.

Can I make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just follow storage instructions for optimal freshness.

What can I use instead of turkey bacon?

Feel free to substitute with chicken or beef bacon if preferred. Both options will add a smoky flavor.

How do I know when spaghetti squash is done?

The squash should be easily pierced with a fork and the strands should separate easily when shredded.

Is Spaghetti Squash Carbonara keto-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is low in carbs and fits perfectly into a keto diet plan.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a deliciously rich dish that delivers comfort without the carbs. Its versatility allows for numerous customizations—swap in different proteins or add vegetables based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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