Ninja 3 in 1: Spaghetti Squash With Turkey Sausage

Spaghetti squash used to intimidate me, its oblong shape and rock-hard shell a culinary fortress. My grandmother, a wizard with garden vegetables, showed me the simple trick of roasting it until tender. Now, the memory of her laughter echoing in the kitchen as we shredded the golden strands together is forever entwined with the cozy comfort of this dish. And with the Ninja 3 in 1, it’s even easier to bring that memory to life, combining browning, roasting, and simmering all in one pot!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: About 6 cups
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (check sausage ingredients)

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian turkey sausage
• 2 cups water
• 1 (4 lb) spaghetti squash, cut in half lengthwise and seeds removed
• 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 teaspoons salt-free garlic and herb seasoning
• 1 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves, packed
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Equipment Needed

• Ninja 3 in 1 cooking system
• Roasting rack (included with Ninja 3 in 1)
• Large spoon
• Fork

Instructions

1. Begin by setting your Ninja 3 in 1 pot to STOVETOP HIGH.

2. Add the Italian turkey sausage to the pot. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, or until browned, stirring often to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Break up the sausage with a spoon as it cooks.

3. Remove the browned sausage from the pot and set aside. Spoon off any excess fat from the pot, leaving a thin layer for flavor. This step helps prevent the final dish from being too greasy.

4. Pour 2 cups of water into the pot. Place the roasting rack into the pot. This will keep the squash elevated during the roasting process.

5. Place the spaghetti squash, cut side down, on the roasting rack.

6. Set the Ninja 3 in 1 to OVEN at 425 degrees F for 25 minutes. This will steam and roast the squash, making it tender and easy to shred.

7. Carefully remove the squash from the pot (it will be hot!). Let it cool slightly, enough so you can handle it without burning yourself. Retain the water in the pot.

8. Using a fork, scrape the flesh from the spaghetti squash into the pot containing the water. The squash should easily shred into spaghetti-like strands.

9. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of salt-free garlic and herb seasoning over the shredded squash.

10. Top with the cooked sausage, chopped tomatoes, and baby spinach.

11. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of garlic and herb seasoning over the sausage, tomatoes, and spinach.

12. Set the Ninja 3 in 1 to OVEN at 425 degrees F for 15 minutes.

13. Cover the pot and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbling, and the spinach has wilted.

14. Finally, sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Allow the cheese to melt slightly before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Pre-cook the sausage: If you are short on time, you can pre-cook the sausage a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This will cut down on the overall cooking time.
• Spice it up: For a spicier dish, use hot Italian turkey sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Roasting the squash: Make sure the squash is fork-tender before shredding. If it’s still firm, add a few more minutes to the roasting time. The internal temperature should reach around 200°F (93°C).
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: If you’re doubling the recipe, work in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses would also be delicious.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the turkey sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the spaghetti squash immediately while it’s hot and the cheese is melted. This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until heated through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	241.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	89	N/A
Total Fat	9.9 g	15%
Saturated Fat	1.3 g	6%
Cholesterol	45.3 mg	15%
Sodium	816.2 mg	34%
Total Carbohydrate	26 g	8%
Dietary Fiber	1.2 g	4%
Sugars	3.3 g	N/A
Protein	15.4 g	N/A

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Omit the parmesan and mozzarella cheese or substitute with vegan alternatives.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions for added nutrients and flavor. Sauté them with the sausage at the beginning of the recipe.
• Herbs: Fresh basil or oregano can be added for a more vibrant flavor. Stir them in just before serving.
• Sauce: For a richer flavor, stir in a jar of your favorite marinara sauce after shredding the spaghetti squash.
• Different Protein: Ground beef or chicken can be used instead of turkey sausage.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of squash?
A: While spaghetti squash is ideal for this recipe, you could experiment with butternut squash or acorn squash, keeping in mind that their textures and flavors will differ.

Q: Do I have to use the Ninja 3 in 1?
A: No, you can also roast the squash in a regular oven. Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until tender. Then, proceed with the rest of the recipe using a separate pot for the sausage and other ingredients.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can roast the spaghetti squash and cook the sausage ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before baking.

Q: What if I don’t have salt-free garlic and herb seasoning?
A: You can substitute with a combination of garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the amounts to your taste.

Q: How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done roasting?
A: The squash is done when the flesh is easily pierced with a fork. It should be tender and slightly yielding.

Final Thoughts

This Ninja 3 in 1 spaghetti squash with turkey sausage is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a comforting and healthy meal with ease. From the savory aroma of the browning sausage to the tender strands of the spaghetti squash, every bite is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something special. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and prepare to be amazed at how easily you can create a dish that’s both delicious and nourishing. I encourage you to experiment with variations, share your feedback, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of creating this delightful meal!