Description
Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a low-carb, cheesy casserole made with roasted spaghetti squash and a rich, garlicky cheese sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a cozy, satisfying dish perfect as a comforting side or main course.
Ingredients
1 medium spaghetti squash, halved and seeded
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp butter or olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
2 oz cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place spaghetti squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35–40 minutes, or until tender.
- Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Mix in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Stir until thick and creamy.
- When squash is cool enough to handle, scrape the flesh into strands with a fork and place in a mixing bowl.
- Combine squash strands with cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
- Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Mix in cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for added protein.
Try Gruyère or gouda instead of cheddar for a flavor twist.
Stir in chopped spinach or kale for extra greens.
Use half-and-half to lighten the dish, or add cayenne for spice.
Reheats best in the oven; microwave with a loose cover to retain moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 65mg