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Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 61 reviews

Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic comfort food, featuring tender roasted spaghetti squash combined with a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from Gruyere, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan. Topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb and cheese crust, this dish offers a satisfying and flavorful meal perfect for a nutritious family dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti Squash

  • 1 large spaghetti squash (about 3–4 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for seasoning squash)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese, divided
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Topping

  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Remaining 1/4 cup Gruyere cheese
  • Remaining 1/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese
  • Remaining 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish (Optional)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the spaghetti squash.
  2. Prepare the squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out all the seeds and stringy bits.
  3. Season the squash: Drizzle the cut sides with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and generously sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  4. Roast the squash: Place the squash halves cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Shred the squash: Once cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands and set aside.
  6. Melt the butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
  7. Sauté onion and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion to the melted butter and cook until translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  8. Make a roux: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the onion and garlic mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
  9. Whisk in the milk: Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps, creating a smooth sauce.
  10. Simmer the sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  11. Season the sauce: Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg, adjusting seasoning to taste.
  12. Add cheeses: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of Gruyere, 3/4 cup of cheddar, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  13. Combine squash and sauce: Fold the shredded spaghetti squash into the cheese sauce gently to combine.
  14. Transfer mixture: Pour the cheesy spaghetti squash mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
  15. Prepare topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup each of Gruyere, cheddar, Parmesan cheese, and the panko breadcrumbs.
  16. Sprinkle topping: Evenly distribute the cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the top of the squash.
  17. Bake au gratin: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and bubbling.
  18. Rest: Remove from oven and let the dish rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to set.
  19. Garnish and serve: Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your healthy and creamy spaghetti squash au gratin!

Notes

  • Do not overcook the squash as it can become mushy and lose its texture.
  • Choose good quality cheeses to enhance the flavor of the dish.
  • Adjust seasoning as per your taste preferences.
  • The dish can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.
  • For a spicy touch, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties to customize flavor.
  • Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage into the squash mixture to make it heartier.
  • Check your Parmesan cheese to ensure it is vegetarian-friendly, as some versions use animal rennet.

Keywords: spaghetti squash, au gratin, healthy recipe, cheesy casserole, roasted squash, vegetarian side dish, comfort food, baked casserole

Find it online: https://hannahdelgado.com/spaghetti-squash-au-gratin-a-delicious-and-healthy-recipe/