Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash:

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s both healthy and full of flavor, you’re in for a treat with Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash. This recipe is like a warm hug on a plate! It combines the rich, savory goodness of chicken meatballs with the delightful texture of spaghetti squash, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing taste!

This dish is not only delicious but also a fun way to enjoy a seasonal twist on traditional pasta and meatballs. The garlic butter adds an irresistible aroma and flavor that will make everyone at the table smile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cleanup, this recipe is perfect for any skill level in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy meatballs nestled in the squash. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance, making this dish even quicker on busy nights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheese creates an explosion of taste that you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients is half the fun! For this dish, you’ll want to use wholesome items that bring out the best flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs and Filling

• 1 1/4 cups whole milk or heavy cream
• 6 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed/squeezed dry
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or gouda

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 2 spaghetti squash, halved and seeds removed
• 1 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• Kosher salt and black pepper

For Seasoning

• 8 cloves garlic
• 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken, beef, or turkey
• 3 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 1/2 chopped fresh herbs (basil, thyme, oregano/sage)

Variations

Feel free to get creative! This recipe is quite flexible and can be adjusted to your liking.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for different flavors.
• Add more veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Cheese it up: Experiment with different types of cheese like feta or cheddar for unique flavor profiles.
• Herb alternatives: Mix up the fresh herbs based on your preferences; rosemary or parsley would work beautifully too.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425° F. This step gets things cooking right away!

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the milk, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella. Season it all with chili flakes, salt, and pepper. This mixture will add creaminess and flavor to our squash.

Step 3: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Place your halved spaghetti squash on a baking sheet cut side up. Sprinkle each half with salt and pepper before adding 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese into each cavity. Then evenly distribute your creamy filling among them. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes to soften them up.

Step 4: Make the Meatballs

While your squash is baking, combine ground chicken (or your chosen protein), Italian seasoning, dijon mustard, and remaining parmesan in another bowl. Season with salt and pepper before mixing thoroughly. Coat your hands with oil and roll this mixture into tablespoon-sized meatballs—aim for about 15-16 meatballs.

Step 5: Bake Together

Once the first baking time is complete, remove the foil from your squash. Arrange those lovely meatballs around them on the baking sheet. Bake everything together for another 15 minutes until those meatballs are fully cooked.

Step 6: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

After removing from the oven again, sprinkle provolone cheese over each squash half before placing meatballs on top of that cheesy goodness. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until melted.

Step 7: Prepare Garlic Butter & Serve

Chop any remaining garlic from earlier and mix it with butter and fresh herbs in a bowl. Spread this flavorful blend over your beautiful meatballs once they’re done baking. Finally, use a fork to scrape out spaghetti strands from each squash half while mixing them with melted cheese as you go along.

And there you have it! A deliciously healthy meal that warms both heart and soul. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash:

Making this dish can be a delightful experience, especially when you have some handy tips to guide you along the way!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opting for fresh herbs and vegetables enhances the flavor of your meatballs and adds vibrant colors to your dish. Fresh ingredients bring out the best in every bite!

• Don’t overmix the meat: When combining the chicken with seasonings, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, and we want them to be tender and juicy.

• Experiment with cheese: While provolone and mozzarella are fantastic, trying other cheeses like fontina or gouda can bring new flavors to your dish. Cheese choices can elevate the taste profile significantly!

• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Everyone has different preferences, so feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or even add some heat with red pepper flakes. This customization makes it uniquely yours.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully. This small step makes a big difference!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash:

Serving this dish is as exciting as making it! With its vibrant colors and enticing aromas, you’ll want to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish perfectly.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little kick, adding some crushed red pepper on top provides both color and a spicy touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Broccoli: The crispy, caramelized edges of roasted broccoli pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the spaghetti squash, adding a delightful crunch.
• Simple Arugula Salad: Tossing arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of salt creates a refreshing contrast that balances out the richness of the meatballs.
• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side dish is not only nutritious but also adds texture and heartiness to your meal. Try incorporating diced veggies for added flavor.
• Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs will complement your stuffed squash beautifully while absorbing any leftover garlic butter goodness.

Now you’re ready to create an exciting dining experience around your Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash! Enjoy every delicious moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer individual portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label the bags with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and reheat in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different meat for Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for this recipe. Just ensure you adjust your cooking time as needed based on the type of meat you choose.

How do I ensure my Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash come out moist?

To keep your meatballs moist, don’t overmix the ingredients and consider adding a little more cream or milk to your mixture if you’re using lean meat. Also, be sure not to overcook them in the oven!

Can I add more vegetables to my Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash?

Yes! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them before mixing them into your cheesy filling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed In Spaghetti Squash! It’s not only a healthier alternative to traditional pasta dishes but also packed with flavor and comfort. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal prep option, this recipe promises warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience or any variations you try!