Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef is pure comfort in a bowl, yet gloriously light and packed with goodness. With sweet, golden squash strands taking the place of pasta, a bright pop of broccoli, and the savory kick of seasoned ground beef, every forkful is crave-worthy. This colorful main dish delivers on flavor, texture, and nutrition, making it a superstar for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without a fuss. You won’t believe how straightforward it is until you take that first vibrant, cheesy bite!

Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a short list of everyday ingredients to make this dish shine, adding both flavor and heartiness. Each one plays a starring role—whether it’s adding juiciness, depth, crunch, or that irresistible finishing touch.

Spaghetti squash: When roasted, its flesh naturally separates into tender, pasta-like strands and makes the perfect base.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps cook both the squash and the flavorful beef mixture.
Ground beef: Makes the dish hearty and brings savory notes that play beautifully with the veggies.
Onion: Diced onion sweetens and deepens the flavor profile as it cooks.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth and punch to everything.
Broccoli florets: Offer color, crunch, and a fresh, earthy contrast to the beef and squash.
Salt: Brings out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
Black pepper: Gives the perfect little bite without overpowering the dish.
Italian seasoning: A blend that ties everything together with a fragrant, herby essence.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a subtle kick and some gentle heat.
Grated Parmesan cheese: For that irresistible, nutty finish that melts right in.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley sprinkles on fresh flavor and a pop of color to the finished dish.

How to Make Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef

Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve your spaghetti squash lengthwise and scoop out those seeds (a sturdy spoon will do the trick!). Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the insides, sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt and pepper, and then lay the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Let them roast for 35 to 40 minutes, until the flesh yields easily to a fork and transforms into gorgeous golden strands.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While your kitchen begins to fill with the cozy aroma of roasting squash, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until it’s deeply browned and craggy, about 6 to 7 minutes. This is where the flavor foundation of Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef truly begins!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the beef is browned, stir in your diced onion and minced garlic. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant, releasing a tempting aroma that lets you know you’re just moments away from something special.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Seasonings

Toss the broccoli florets into the skillet, followed by salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir it all together and let the broccoli cook for 5 to 6 minutes—it should be bright green and tender-crisp, adding a wonderful contrast to the dish.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your spaghetti squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into long, pasta-like strands. Add these right into your skillet with the beef and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together until the lovely, golden squash is evenly coated and mingles with the savory beef and crunchy broccoli. Remove from heat, then sprinkle the top with a generous handful of Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. Serve piping hot for the best experience!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef

Garnishes

Finish Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef with a fluffy shower of grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped fresh parsley for that perfect mix of nutty richness and herby freshness. For a little tang, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top, or add a dash of red pepper flakes for gentle warmth.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, maybe featuring arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette. For a silky side, try garlic-buttered green beans, or go classic with a slice of crusty bread to sop up any cheesy bits left at the bottom of your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful and serve the finished Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef right in the roasted squash shells for an extra-stunning presentation. You can also portion it into ramekins, top with extra Parmesan, and quickly broil until bubbly. For a fun weeknight twist, try stuffing a bell pepper with the mixture and baking until golden.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep leftovers fresh, store Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors mingle even more as they sit, making your second helping just as delightful as the first.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep its best texture for about 1 month. When you’re ready for a fast, nourishing meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave until piping hot, or warm them on the stovetop over medium heat. If the squash strands seem a little dry upon reheating, stir in a splash of broth or a bit more olive oil to bring it back to its original lusciousness.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lighter option and still soaks up all the flavors in Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef. Just keep an eye on the seasoning since turkey can be a bit milder than beef.

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is perfectly cooked?

The squash is ready when you can easily pierce the skin with a fork and the flesh easily shreds into spaghetti-like strands. If it feels too tough, roast it in 5-minute intervals until it hits that sweet spot.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Totally! Swap the ground beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tempeh, or your favorite plant-based ground for a vegetarian take on Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef.

What’s the best way to cut a spaghetti squash safely?

Use a very sharp chef’s knife, and carefully cut lengthwise from stem to base. If the squash is especially tough, poke a few holes with a fork and microwave it for 2 to 3 minutes to soften slightly before slicing.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

It’s excellent for meal prep! Cook and mix everything, let it cool, then portion into lunch containers. Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef reheats beautifully, so you’ll have quick, wholesome meals ready to go.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a plateful of vibrant, cozy comfort. I hope you’ll try Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli and Ground Beef and share its warmth with those you love. It’s a meal you’ll come back to again and again—promise!