This Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a creamy and cheesy delight, all while being good for you! Using spaghetti squash as the base makes it light but still so satisfying.
I love how the melted cheese makes everything feel like a warm hug. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies! Who knew eating healthy could taste this good? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti Squash: This is the star of the dish, creating pasta-like strands. If spaghetti squash is unavailable, you could use zucchini or even cauliflower rice as alternatives, though the texture will vary.
Cottage Cheese or Ricotta: Both add creaminess. I usually lean towards cottage cheese for its protein, but ricotta brings a richer flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a similar texture.
Cheeses: Parmesan and mozzarella provide flavor and gooeyness. If you want a stronger taste, consider using sharp cheddar or a vegan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Breadcrumbs: They add crunch on top, but you can skip them for a gluten-free version. You can also substitute with crushed nuts or seeds for an extra layer of texture.
How Do You Roast Spaghetti Squash Perfectly?
Roasting spaghetti squash is crucial for this dish. You want it tender but not too mushy! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. This step lets the squash cook evenly.
- Place the squash cut side down on the baking sheet. This helps steam the inside.
- Roast for 35-40 minutes, checking for doneness. Insert a fork; it should easily pierce the flesh.
Let it cool a bit before shredding—this helps avoid burning your hands and makes handling easier!
Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3-4 pounds)
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes for prep, plus about 40 minutes of roasting and baking time. In total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes to get this tasty Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin on your table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Spaghetti Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Roast in the oven for about 35-40 minutes. You want the flesh to be tender so that you can shred it with a fork easily.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
While the squash is roasting, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. It should smell wonderful! Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Filling:
Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Transfer those strands to a large mixing bowl. Now, add the sautéed onion and garlic, cottage cheese (or ricotta), grated Parmesan cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, dried thyme, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until it’s nicely combined.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 8×8-inch (or a similar sized) baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. If you’re using breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping, sprinkle those over as well.
5. Bake and Serve:
Pop it in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool slightly before serving. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a lovely touch. Enjoy your healthy and comforting Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin!
FAQ for Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin
Can I Use a Different Type of Squash?
While spaghetti squash is best known for its noodle-like strands, you can experiment with other squashes like acorn or butternut, though they won’t have the same texture. Just ensure that you’re cooking them thoroughly to achieve a tender consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared, unbaked dish. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook it, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as instructed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for the Cheese?
If you need dairy-free options, try using cashew cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For lower-fat options, you can choose reduced-fat cheese varieties or simply reduce the total amount of cheese used in the recipe.
