How to Turn Leftovers Into a Gourmet Meal: Adult Spaghetti-Os with Butternut Squash Soup
Reducing Food Waste One Meal at a Time
Food waste is a major issue, with households throwing away uneaten food every day. But with a little creativity, those leftovers in our fridges can be transformed into something delicious and new and not boring. This recipe for Adult Spaghetti-Os is the perfect example of how to repurpose leftovers into a balanced, satisfying meal.
Using a leftover butternut squash soup as the base, this dish combines carbs (little circle ring pasta), protein (Italian sausage meatballs or Great Northern beans for a plant-based option), and veggies (butternut squash, onions, and more from the soup) for a nourishing and cozy meal that feels indulgent while still being packed with nutrition.
The Perfect Balance: Carbs, Protein, and Veggies
When building a meal from leftovers, keeping a balance of macronutrients ensures it’s both filling and satisfying. This recipe naturally checks all the boxes:
Carbohydrates: The Comfort of Pasta
Pasta serves as the perfect base, adding heartiness and comfort. For this dish, Anelli pasta (small, ring-shaped pasta) gives a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of classic canned Spaghetti-Os. However, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as elbow macaroni, ditalini, or even whole wheat options for added fiber. One of my favorite protein and fiber packed pasta brands are Goodles and Banza.
Protein: Savory Italian Sausage or Plant-Based Alternatives
Adding protein helps make the meal more satiating. Italian sausage meatballs bring a rich, savory flavor, but if you prefer a plant-based version, white beans are a fantastic substitute. White beans blend beautifully with the butternut squash soup and provide fiber, protein, and a creamy texture. For the Italian sausage meatballs, simply use a tablespoon to scoop the ground Italian sausage and roll into balls. I prefer to keep the meatballs mini in size, a node to the canned Spaghetti-os, but feel free to roll your meatballs a bit larger.
Vegetables: Nutrient-Packed Butternut Squash Soup
The butternut squash soup in this recipe does double duty—it acts as the sauce while also delivering a dose of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Butternut squash is naturally sweet and creamy, making it a perfect pairing with the spice of Italian sausage or the earthiness of white beans.
How to Repurpose Leftover Soup into a Sauce
One of the best ways to cut down on food waste is by using creamy or blended soups as sauces. If you have a leftover soup that’s thick and creamy, it can serve as the perfect base for a pasta dish like this one. Here’s how:
1. Thicken if Needed: If your soup is too thin, let it simmer on the stovetop to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
2. Season to Taste: Since the soup was originally seasoned for a different purpose, you may need to adjust spices. Adding extra garlic, black pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor.
3. Enhance with Protein: Toss in Italian sausage meatballs, white beans, or even shredded chicken to give the dish more depth.
4. Add Pasta: Stir in cooked pasta for a one-pot meal that’s comforting and nutritious.
Freezing Leftovers: Extend the Life of Your Meal
If you have extra Adult Spaghetti-Os, don’t let them go to waste! Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of your meal. Here’s how to store it properly:
How to Freeze Butternut Squash-Based Pasta Dishes
1. Cool Completely: Let the dish cool to room temperature before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
2. Portion for Convenience: Divide the meal into single-serving portions so you can defrost only what you need.
3. Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Store in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
4. Label and Date: Write the date on the container so you know when to use it (best within 2–3 months).
5. Reheat Properly: Defrost overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Making This Meal Work for Your Lifestyle
One of the best parts of this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some easy modifications:
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Dairy-Free: If your butternut squash soup contains dairy, ensure you use a dairy-free recipe that subs coconut milk or soy milk in place of milk or cream.
- Spicy or Mild: Adjust the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes or keeping it mild for those that do not prefer heat or spice.
Final Thoughts
Transforming leftovers into a completely new meal is an easy and rewarding way to reduce food waste in your home, save money, and enjoy delicious, homemade meals that support your nutrition goals. This Adult Spaghetti-Os recipe proves that with a little creativity, leftovers can become the star of your next meal.
Have you tried repurposing leftovers in creative ways? Let me know in the comments! And if you love this idea, share it with a friend who could use some kitchen inspiration.
Adult Spaghetti-Os with Butternut Squash Soup
Using a leftover butternut squash soup as the base, this dish combines carbs (little circle ring pasta), protein (Italian sausage meatballs or Great Northern beans for a plant-based option), and veggies (butternut squash, onions, and more from the soup) for a nourishing and cozy meal that feels indulgent while still being packed with nutrition.
Ingredients
- 1.15 # mild ground Italian sausage
- 3-4 cups of leftover butternut squash soup
- 8 ounces Anelli pasta
- Garnish: 2 ounces shredded or grated parmesan cheese and 1 ounce minced parsley (fresh or dried)
Instructions
- Using a tablespoon, scoop the ground Italian sausage. Using the palms of your hand, roll each scoop of ground sausage into a meatball shape. Continue to do until all ground sausage is used.
- Place ground sausage balls into a skillet pan and place over medium-high heat. Cook until all sides are browned, using tongs to turn meatballs so all sides are cooked. Use a food thermometer to check doneness of meatballs (160*F). Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook Anelli pasta per package instructions. Drain pasta with colander and save 1/4 cup of starchy pasta water.
- Pour the leftover butternut squash soup into the skillet with the meatballs and place skillet back on the stove using medium-low heat. Pour in the cooked pasta and reserved 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Stir and let the skillet come to a simmer. Remove from heat. Garnish with parmesan cheese and minced parsley. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories
253Fat
7 gSat. Fat
3 gCarbs
38 gFiber
3 gNet carbs
35 gSugar
3 gProtein
9 gSodium
165 mgCholesterol
16 mgThe nutritional information provided is an estimate calculated using online tools and is for informational purposes only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. If you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.
