Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash Marinara Meatballs Bliss

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash (approx. 2-3 lbs / 900g-1.4kg)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (2.5 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1.25 ml)
• 1 (28 ounce / 794g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can tomato sauce
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (5 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (2.5 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, 1.25ml)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for balancing acidity) (15ml)
• 1 pound ground beef (450g) (80/20 blend is ideal)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned) (120ml)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (60ml)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (60ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (2.5ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.25ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1.25ml)