Description
Enjoy a nutritious and delicious Spaghetti Squash Dinner with this Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin recipe. Perfect for low-carb, high-flavor meals, this cheesy squash dish offers a comforting and healthy alternative to traditional pasta, loaded with melty cheese, savory seasonings, and tender spaghetti squash strands. Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s a simple, satisfying dinner that fits into any healthy eating plan.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large spaghetti squash
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for dairy-free options)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 40-45 minutes until tender.
- While roasting, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, add heavy cream or coconut milk with thyme, simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.
- Cool the cooked squash slightly, then shred flesh into strands using a fork. Transfer to a large bowl, pour the cheese sauce over, and toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the assembled dish for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Add extra cheese on top if desired.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot, optionally with salad or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Feel free to add sautéed vegetables or cooked chicken for extra flavor and protein.
- Using different cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack can create varying tastes.
- Dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake, Sauté, Roast
- Cuisine: Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 340 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg