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Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

cheesy spaghetti squash au gratin - featured image

This cheesy spaghetti squash au gratin combines comfort food with a healthy twist, featuring a creamy interior and a golden crust that’s irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash, roasted and shredded into strands
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp recommended)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 40-50 minutes, until tender.
  2. Once cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, toss the spaghetti squash strands with the cheese sauce until well coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  8. Let the au gratin cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

[‘Roasting the squash enhances its natural sweetness and avoids excess moisture.’, ‘Use a blend of cheeses for a deeper flavor profile.’, ‘If the squash seems too moist, pat the strands dry with a paper towel before mixing them with the sauce.’, ‘You can prep the squash and cheese sauce a day in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.’, ‘Switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a browner crust.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti squash, au gratin, cheesy casserole, low-carb, gluten-free, comfort food