Gluten-Free Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Recipe
This Gluten-Free Spaghetti Squash Lasagna swaps traditional noodles for roasted spaghetti squash — keeping all the saucy, cheesy, meaty goodness of classic lasagna, but making it gluten-free and low-carb. It’s a cozy, satisfying comfort meal you can feel good about. Whether you’re eating gluten-free, keto, or just trying to get more veggies in your life, this lasagna hits the spot.
🛒 Ingredients
🔹 For the Squash Base:
- 2 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
🔹 For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) gluten-free marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
🔹 For the Cheese Layers:
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice spaghetti squash in half, scoop out seeds, and brush with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast 35–40 minutes until fork tender. Let cool, then scrape into strands with a fork.
- In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in marinara and Italian seasoning. Simmer 5–10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, and egg.
- In a 9×13” dish, layer: half the spaghetti squash, half the ricotta mix, half the meat sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers.
- Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic-roasted broccoli or green beans
- Pair with a crisp green salad and balsamic dressing
- Top with fresh basil or crushed red pepper
🙋 FAQ About Gluten-Free Spaghetti Squash Lasagna
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes — just omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or lentils instead.
Is spaghetti squash naturally gluten-free?
Yes! It’s a nutrient-dense, naturally gluten-free veggie with a great pasta-like texture.
Can I prep this ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble in advance, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bake when ready.
📌 Final Thoughts
This Gluten-Free Spaghetti Squash Lasagna is a cozy, lower-carb version of your favorite Italian dish — but with more veggies and none of the gluten. It’s cheesy, savory, and endlessly satisfying. Once you try it, you might never go back to traditional noodles again!
🍝 A Lighter Take on a Classic Favorite
Craving the rich, comforting flavors of lasagna without the carbs, gluten, or heaviness? This Gluten-Free Spaghetti Squash Lasagna is your answer. By swapping out traditional noodles for roasted spaghetti squash, this dish packs in vegetables and nutrients without sacrificing that cheesy, saucy goodness you love.
It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and high-protein — perfect for anyone following a clean-eating plan, keto lifestyle, or simply looking to lighten things up. It’s family-friendly, meal-prep approved, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!
🥄 Why Spaghetti Squash Works So Well
Spaghetti squash is a magic ingredient for gluten-free and low-carb eaters. When roasted, it naturally separates into noodle-like strands that absorb sauce and mimic the texture of pasta — without the starch or gluten.
It’s also:
- Rich in fiber: Keeps you full and supports digestion.
- Low in calories and carbs: Great for keto, low-glycemic, and gluten-free diets.
- Subtle in flavor: Pairs well with bold sauces and cheese layers.
Roast it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge so you’re always one step away from lasagna night!
🧀 The Layers That Make It Lasagna
Even without noodles, this dish keeps the spirit of lasagna alive through its layers of:
- Spaghetti squash: A light and nutritious base.
- Ricotta-Parmesan blend: Creamy, rich, and seasoned with egg for structure.
- Hearty meat sauce: Ground beef or turkey cooked with onions, garlic, and marinara.
- Mozzarella cheese: Gooey, melty, and golden on top!
You can also use dairy-free cheese alternatives if needed — this recipe is extremely adaptable.
🌿 Customization Tips & Add-Ins
This dish is incredibly flexible. Here are some easy substitutions and upgrades to try:
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and add chopped mushrooms, lentils, or sautéed zucchini.
- Make it dairy-free: Use cashew ricotta, vegan mozzarella, and plant-based Parmesan.
- Use Italian sausage: For a heartier flavor, try hot or sweet gluten-free sausage instead of ground turkey.
- Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper, garlic powder, or fresh basil to the sauce or ricotta layers.
Whatever your preferences or dietary needs, this lasagna can be made to fit them.
🥗 What to Serve with Spaghetti Squash Lasagna
Because the dish is hearty but lower in carbs than traditional lasagna, you can pair it with just about anything. Here are a few gluten-free favorites:
- Gluten-free garlic bread
- Simple green salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar
- Roasted green beans or Brussels sprouts
- Steamed broccoli with lemon
🧊 Meal Prep, Storage & Freezing Tips
This dish is perfect for make-ahead meals. It holds up well and reheats like a dream!
- Meal Prep: Assemble the lasagna in advance and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 2 days.
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Freeze individual slices or the entire dish after baking. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tip: Bake it in a foil tray if you plan to freeze the whole pan. That way, it’s oven-ready whenever you need it.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a ripe spaghetti squash?
Look for squash that is firm with a matte, yellow skin and feels heavy for its size. Avoid any with soft spots or cracks.
Can I cook the squash in the microwave?
Yes! Prick the whole squash a few times and microwave 5–7 minutes to soften it, then cut, seed, and roast for a shorter time (about 20 minutes).
Is it watery?
Spaghetti squash can release water if overcooked. Let the roasted strands rest and drain excess liquid before layering, and bake uncovered to allow moisture to evaporate.
📣 Final Bite
This Gluten-Free Spaghetti Squash Lasagna is a fun, healthy spin on a beloved comfort food. It’s got all the cheesy, saucy satisfaction you crave — with fewer carbs, more nutrients, and none of the gluten. Whether you’re serving it to guests, family, or just meal-prepping for the week, it’s a dish that delivers big flavor without the guilt.
Give it a try and see just how satisfying spaghetti squash can be!