If you’re looking for a creative and flavorful way to enjoy spaghetti squash, look no further than these Bacon and Spaghetti Squash Fritters with Parmesan. Packed with savory bacon, nutty Parmesan cheese, and fragrant fresh parsley, these fritters are a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light meal, these fritters are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these delicious fritters!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Make the Fritter Batter: Once the spaghetti squash has cooled, use a fork to scrape the flesh into a large mixing bowl. Add the crumbled bacon, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Fritters: Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Using your hands, scoop up some of the fritter mixture and shape it into a small patty. Place the fritter in the skillet and gently press down to flatten it slightly. Repeat with the remaining mixture, leaving space between each fritter in the skillet.
- Cook the Fritters: Fry the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet. Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the fritters warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy as a tasty appetizer, side dish, or light meal.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Gluten-Free Option: To make these fritters gluten-free, substitute almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for the all-purpose flour.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version of these fritters. You can add extra Parmesan cheese or incorporate other veggies like chopped spinach or roasted red peppers for added flavor.
- Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the fritter mixture.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve these fritters with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a tangy aioli for extra flavor.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to make keto-friendly fritters. Additionally, ensure that the bacon you use is sugar-free to keep the carb count low.
Low-Carb Version:
- To make low-carb fritters, reduce the amount of flour used or substitute it with a low-carb alternative like almond flour. You can also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to lower the carb content further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use pre-cooked spaghetti squash?
Yes, if you have pre-cooked spaghetti squash on hand, you can use it in this recipe. Simply skip the step of baking the squash in the oven and proceed with scraping the flesh into the mixing bowl.
2. Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter option, you can bake these fritters instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven until warmed through before serving.
These Bacon and Spaghetti Squash Fritters with Parmesan are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of spaghetti squash in a whole new way. With their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, these fritters are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a low-carb option, or simply craving a tasty snack, these fritters are a must-try recipe. So gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible fritters today!
