Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed in Spiralized Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 spaghetti squash, halved and seeds removed; 1 ¼ cup whole milk or heavy cream; 6 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry; ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes; ½ cup shredded mozzarella or gouda; ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese, plus 1 cup grated parmesan divided; Kosher salt and black pepper to taste; 1 ½ lb ground chicken or turkey; 3 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for coating hands; 8 cloves garlic; 6 tbsp salted butter; ½ cup shredded provolone cheese; ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (basil, thyme, oregano, or sage mix)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 64 reviews

If you are craving a comforting, yet wholesome dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed in Spiralized Spaghetti Squash Recipe. It’s an inspired twist on classic pasta and meatballs, swapping out traditional noodles for light, tender spaghetti squash and infusing every bite with a luscious garlic butter finish. This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishing ingredients, making it a delightful centerpiece for any weeknight or special dinner gathering.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a close-up of half a spaghetti squash placed on a dark surface with a white marbled texture. The squash is pale yellow inside with seeds and stringy parts in the center, displaying a natural, rough texture. The outer edge of the squash skin is smooth and slightly shiny, and there is a small bright pink flower visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is the first step to making this dish a standout. Each component adds a special flair, whether it’s the creamy cheeses that bring richness, the fresh herbs giving brightness, or the wholesome chicken for protein-packed comfort.

Whole milk or heavy cream (1 ¼ cups): Adds creaminess and a velvety texture to the filling mixture.
Frozen chopped spinach (6 oz, thawed and squeezed dry): A nutrient-rich green that blends quietly into the mix for extra color and vitamins.
Chopped sun-dried tomatoes (½ cup): Provides a sweet, tangy pop that brightens every bite.
Shredded mozzarella or gouda (½ cup): Melts beautifully, infusing mild, gooey goodness into the filling.
Spaghetti squash (2, halved and seeds removed): The star vegetable substitute for pasta with a delicate, slightly sweet flavor.
Grated parmesan (1 ¼ cups): Adds a salty, nutty depth both inside the dish and sprinkled on top.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors harmoniously.
Garlic cloves (8): The soul of this recipe, infusing buttery aroma and savory warmth.
Ground chicken (1 ½ lbs) or turkey: Lean protein that forms tender, juicy meatballs.
Italian seasoning (3 tbsp): A fragrant herb blend that seasons the meatballs perfectly for an Italian-inspired flair.
Dijon mustard (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle tang that lifts the meatballs’ flavor profile.
Shredded provolone cheese (1 cup): Melts atop the meatballs for an irresistible, creamy topping.
Salted butter (6 tbsp): The luxurious ingredient that brings everything together in richness and flavor.
Chopped fresh herbs (½ cup mix of basil, thyme, oregano, sage): Injects fresh herbal brightness that complements the garlic butter.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed in Spiralized Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash and Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 425° F. While it heats, mix together the milk, thawed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella in a bowl—this creamy medley will soon be the luscious base inside the squash. Season your mixture with a pinch of chili flakes, salt, and pepper to awaken the flavors and add a gentle kick.

Step 2: Roast the Squash

Place the halved spaghetti squash cut side up on a baking sheet, seasoning generously with salt and pepper on the flesh. Sprinkle about ¼ cup of parmesan into each squash cavity before dividing the milk and cheese mixture evenly into them. Cover everything with foil to trap moisture, and pop it into the oven for 15 minutes. This step pre-cooks the squash, softening it perfectly.

Step 3: Make the Chicken Meatballs

While the squash roasts, combine ground chicken, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, and half a cup of parmesan in a bowl. Add salt and pepper according to your taste. Mix thoroughly but gently, then lightly oil your hands and roll the meat into tablespoon-sized meatballs—expect about 15 to 16. This step is fun and hands-on, getting you intimately connected to your meal’s heart.

Step 4: Bake Meatballs Around the Squash

Once the squash comes out of the oven, remove the foil and arrange the chicken meatballs around the squash halves on the baking sheet. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are cooked through and juicy.

Step 5: Melt Cheese and Add Garlic Butter

After removing the baking sheet again, take out the whole garlic cloves from the pan (they will be soft and fragrant). Sprinkle shredded provolone evenly on each squash half and nestle the meatballs on top. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes more, until the provolone melts into a bubbly, golden crown. While baking, mash the roasted garlic with salted butter and chopped fresh herbs in a bowl to create an irresistible garlic butter masterpiece.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once your cheesy, meaty squash is out of the oven, spread the garlic herb butter over the meatballs. Use a fork to scrape the squash flesh into spaghetti-like strands, mixing it with the melted cheeses in the cavity. This final touch creates a rich, flavorful combination that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to your taste buds.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed in Spiralized Spaghetti Squash Recipe

The image shows a stuffed spaghetti squash half placed on a dark blue rectangular tray with a wooden spoon resting on the side. The squash is filled with several layers: the bright yellow-orange shell of the squash forms the base, inside is a mix of cooked, shredded squash flesh topped with two golden-brown meatballs. The meatballs are covered with melted white cheese that stretches slightly on the spoon, along with chopped green herbs and bits of onion. Around the tray, there are small bunches of fresh green herbs scattered, along with a block of lightly speckled yellow cheese in the background inside a small white bowl, also garnished with green herbs. The tray itself is on a white marbled surface with a textured cloth partly visible. The scene looks fresh and colorful with natural lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or a light dusting of extra parmesan for added flavor and a pop of color. A sprinkle of red chili flakes can also add a playful heat if you love a bit of spice.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. If you crave bread, a warm garlic baguette will soak up every buttery, cheesy drop.

Creative Ways to Present

For an irresistible presentation, serve the squash halves on rustic wooden boards or colorful dinnerware to highlight the vibrant colors and textures. You can also scatter extra fresh herbs or drizzle a little balsamic reduction for a fancy touch that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed in Spiralized Spaghetti Squash Recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to retain moisture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that freezing may slightly affect the texture of the squash but the flavors will remain delightful.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on a baking sheet in a 350° F oven until warmed through to keep the texture of the meatballs and squash tender. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring the squash strands occasionally for even heating without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and works just as well with the seasoning and flavors in this dish, keeping it light yet satisfying.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

They should reach an internal temperature of 165° F. They will be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside. Baking them alongside the squash helps them cook evenly.

Can I prepare this dish without sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, if you prefer, you can omit them or substitute with chopped roasted red peppers for a slightly different but equally tasty flavor boost.

Is it necessary to use the garlic butter topping?

While optional, the garlic butter with fresh herbs elevates the dish wonderfully by adding richness and brightness—making it well worth the extra step.

What’s the best way to spiralize the spaghetti squash?

Roasting and then scraping the flesh with a fork creates the perfect spaghetti strands. Spiralizing raw squash isn’t recommended due to its hard texture.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Stuffed in Spiralized Spaghetti Squash Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings joy from the first bite to the last. It feels indulgent without the heaviness, full of comforting flavors and fresh ingredients you can feel good about. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the cozy, flavorful experience it delivers in every forkful.