If I’m being honest, I am a little tired of being in the kitchen. Let’s think about the fact that since 18, I’ve been on my own and making my own (and family’s) meals since then. That’s a reeeaaally long time! As I always say, “I’m all about the ease” these days and meals don’t have to be overthought out or complicated. Hence this Spaghetti Squash Bake w/Ground Duck recipe!
Cleaner Meat
Why ground duck? Well, it’s what I had on hand and I just went with it but you can certainly use any ground meat that you prefer. I have spoken of Buy Ranch Direct many times and that’s where I get 99% of my meats. I love that they use grass-fed/grass-finished meats! The flavor is so good …not matter what the cut! Which is definitely a plus if you need to buy the “cheaper” cuts to stay on budget. Buying cheaper cuts in the grocery store is sometimes off putting as the meat isn’t tender, fresh or good for you. You can check out more of Buy Ranch Direct here and see where your meats can come from! Tip: if you love bacon, that’s what I would purchase first!!! So so good! (not sponsored)
Find Shortcuts Where You Can
While on the subject of both ease and brands, I use Primal Kitchen Foods Dreamy Italian for this dish. They have sooo many sauces & dressings to choose from and I find them extremely convenient to use for flavoring. I’m not a huge salad lover, so the salad dressings have become more of marinades and sauces to use as I do in this Spaghetti Squash Bake w/Ground Duck.
Primal Kitchen Foods also has paleo approved ketchup, BBQ sauces and one of my favorites from them …..MAYO! The regular mayonnaise is on point and so convenient, especially after a couple of years of me making my own. But if you’re up for some kick in your mayonnaise, grab the Chipotle Lime Mayo …or the Garlic Aioli! There are many uses for all of their products and again, just taking a few minutes off prep or time in the kitchen is what I’m looking for these days.
If you’re looking for more recipes using a quick and easy flavoring, try this! I use Primal Kitchen Foods Chipotle Lime Mayo in for this Spaghetti Squash Dip – it’s easy and good!
Ok – so let’s move on! (sorry …I just get a little excited about some of the products I use!) Back to the Spaghetti Squash Bake w/Ground Duck. As mentioned, feel free to use any ground meat you like. This meal came together on a whim using what I had in the kitchen and taking the “easy way out” by using the Dreamy Italian Dressing. Always switch up what you prefer in any recipe. I try to share what I do to inspire but this is really your journey and making choices to fit your needs. Swap out the meat for another, use another sauce or switch out the veggies I use! Make it your own!
Let me know what you think and if you make any modifications! It helps me to know what your needs/likes are as well as helping others who might need a modification too! ENJOY!
Notes
*I baked mine in microwave for 10 minutes: cut squash in 1/2, scoop out seeds. Place squash, flesh side down on a large microwave safe plate….with water covering bottom of plate (place plate in microwave, then use a cup to add the water so there’s no accidental plate imbalance and water mess). 10 minutes and done. Careful – it’s hot! (Prep time depends on whether or not you’ve prepped the chicken and broccoli ahead of time – 10 minutes is with these ingredients prepped ahead)
Ingredients
- 1 medium/large spaghetti squash
- 1 lb ground Duck (or any ground meat)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked, roughly chopped broccoli
- 1/2 cup Dreamy Italian Dressing
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Green onions and/or cilantro to top off
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°
- Cook spaghetti squash with your preferred method. *See below
- In a large pan, cook the ground meat until no longer pink. Toss in the chopped broccoli and Dreamy Italian Dressing.
- In a baking dish, fork out the strings or spaghetti squash and add eggs to combine. Sprinkle on seasonings and mix.
- Pour in the meat mixture and stir to incorporate. Bake at 425° for 15 minutes.
- Let stand 10-15 min before serving. Top with green onions and/or cilantro.
