Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Sink your fork into layers of savory, melty goodness with this Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash! This crave-worthy recipe transforms humble spaghetti squash into a gluten-free, low-carb dinner packed with golden-roasted strands, spicy Italian sausage, zesty marinara, and three irresistible cheeses. Whether you’re serving picky eaters or hosting hungry friends, this easy, crowd-pleasing dish is a guaranteed way to add comfort (and a bit of gourmet flair) to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is picked to bring both flavor and texture to each bite. The essentials are simple, which lets the vibrant Italian-inspired elements shine, making every mouthful warm and satisfying.
- Spaghetti Squash: Creates a healthful, noodle-like base with a subtle sweetness and tender texture.
- Olive Oil: Helps the squash roast up beautifully golden and imparts fruity notes.
- Italian Sausage (mild or spicy): Adds savory depth and a protein kick; choose spicy for extra heat!
- Yellow Onion: Gives gentle sweetness and complexity to the filling.
- Garlic: Brings out that classic Italian aroma and punchy flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: Infuses herby richness with hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A fiery accent for those who crave a little spice.
- Marinara Sauce: Provides a tangy, tomatoey base that ties it all together.
- Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and helps unify the sausage filling.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into stretchy, gooey perfection on top.
- Parmesan Cheese: Delivers a salty, nutty finish and lovely golden color.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out every flavor in the dish.
- Fresh Parsley: The perfect garnish for color and a pop of freshness.
How to Make Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut your spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, and place them cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes until the flesh becomes soft and easily shredded with a fork. This roasting step brings out the natural sweetness and helps the strands separate beautifully.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
While the squash bakes, set a skillet over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Break it up as it cooks so every bit browns evenly and develops a rich, savory flavor foundation. The sausage is the heart of Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash, so take your time to let it get golden and crumbly!
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once the sausage is browned, toss in the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Keep stirring until the onions soften and the garlic turns fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. These aromatics infuse your filling with even more Italian flair.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and, if you love some heat, red pepper flakes. Stir in the marinara sauce, then let everything simmer for a couple of minutes to meld. You’re building that crave-able, saucy filling that sets Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash apart from the rest!
Step 5: Shred the Squash & Combine
When the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to gently loosen and fluff the strands, keeping them inside the shell—no extra bowls required! Stir ricotta cheese into your sausage mixture; this will make every bite luscious and creamy. Spoon the sausage-ricotta filling evenly into each squash half, tucking it right into those golden squash “boats.”
Step 6: Top and Bake
Scatter mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over each stuffed squash half. Slide them back into the oven for another 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden at the edges. The kitchen will start to smell absolutely irresistible!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Dust with a fresh shower of chopped parsley and serve Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash while it’s piping hot and gooey. All that’s left to do is dig into the cheesy, meaty, veggie-packed goodness.
How to Serve Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Garnishes
For that perfect finishing touch, sprinkle with a handful of freshly chopped parsley right before serving. If you want to be extra fancy, add a dusting of extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil. The fresh parsley adds a bright, herby pop that balances all the gooey, cheesy richness of the dish.
Side Dishes
Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash shines as a one-dish meal, but you can round out the table with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or simple garlic bread. The dish pairs especially well with a tangy vinaigrette or garlicky veggies to add contrast to the creamy, savory squash boats.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving the squash in its own shell is already stunning and makes everyone feel special. To mix things up, try slicing each stuffed half into wedges for easy sharing, or scoop the filling into ramekins for individual squash casseroles—a fun twist on the classic Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffed squash keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container—the flavors will keep melding and it tastes just as good the next day. Enjoy a ready-to-go, nourishing meal for lunch or a quick weeknight dinner.
Freezing
Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash can be frozen for up to two months. Let the stuffed squash cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Microwaving also works for smaller portions (just cover to prevent splatters). Either way, you’ll have that signature gooey-cheesy finish every time.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap the Italian sausage for your favorite plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and you still get all that cheesy, saucy comfort in every bite.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids usually love the creamy cheese and familiar sausage flavor, plus the noodles are just fun. For little ones or those sensitive to spice, just use mild Italian sausage and leave out the red pepper flakes.
Can I make Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the squash, cook the filling, and stuff the shells up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge, then bake and add toppings just before serving for best flavor and texture.
What type Main Course
Any good-quality jarred or homemade marinara will do the trick. If you want more flavor, choose a sauce with roasted garlic, basil, or even a spicy arrabbiata for a little extra kick!
Can I use different cheeses?
Of course! Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan are classic, but feel free to get creative—try fontina for extra meltiness or provolone for a tangy lift. Just make sure to add the cheeses that melt well and enhance the flavor of Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash.
Final Thoughts
Bring a little comfort, a little fun, and a whole lot of flavor to your table with Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. It’s easy, nourishing, and sure to become a favorite for weeknights or special gatherings. Give it a try and discover why this stuffed squash is always met with empty plates and happy smiles!
Print
Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a delicious and satisfying low-carb meal that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and three types of cheese all stuffed into a roasted spaghetti squash boat.
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti Squash:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast cut side down for 35-40 minutes.
- Cook the filling: Brown the sausage in a skillet, add onion and garlic, then season and add marinara sauce. Simmer briefly.
- Assemble: Shred the cooked squash, mix with ricotta, fill the squash shells, top with cheeses, and bake until bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy hot!
Notes
- You can prepare the filling while the squash is roasting to save time.
- For a lower-fat version, use turkey sausage and part-skim cheeses.
- This dish reheats well for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed half
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg