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Homemade Skinny Shrimp Parmesan Spaghetti Squash photo

Skinny Shrimp Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Light, cheesy spaghetti squash boats topped with quick pan-seared shrimp for a healthy, satisfying meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small to medium spaghetti squash roasted
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded (may use low-fat)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons whole wheat Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 large shrimp
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil for serving (optional)

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Large Bowl
  • Large Skillet
  • Spatula or tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the whole spaghetti squash until tender if not already roasted—pierce, halve, seed, and roast cut-side down about 35–45 minutes for a medium squash; allow to cool slightly.
  2. Scoop the spaghetti-like strands from the squash shells into a large bowl (about 2 1/2 cups). Discard or reserve the shells for filling.
  3. Add the 1/2 cup marinara, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder to the squash strands and toss until evenly coated.
  4. Divide the sauced squash evenly back into the two squash shells and sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella on each (about 1/4 cup per side).
  5. Place the squash boats on a baking sheet and bake in the oven 5–6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
  6. While the squash bakes, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp generously with salt and pepper.
  7. Add the shrimp to the hot skillet and cook about 45 seconds per side, until pink and opaque; remove from heat and set aside.
  8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Top each squash boat with 3 shrimp, 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan, and 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs.
  9. Return the pan to the oven and bake 4 more minutes, until the toppings are warmed and the breadcrumbs are lightly golden.
  10. Carefully transfer the squash boats to a serving platter and sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil if using, then serve immediately.

Notes

  • Roast the squash ahead to save time.
  • Use peeled, deveined shrimp for convenience.
  • Low-fat mozzarella can be used to reduce calories.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste before baking.