Description
Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a creamy, cheesy delight that transforms the humble spaghetti squash into a show-stopping dish. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe offers a healthier twist on traditional mac and cheese by replacing pasta with nutrient-rich squash. The combination of Gruyere, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich sauce that envelops the tender strands of squash, topped with a crispy layer of breadcrumbs for added texture. Whether enjoyed as a main course or paired with grilled chicken or baked salmon, this au gratin is sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 large spaghetti squash (about 3–4 pounds)
- 4 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
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut spaghetti squash in half, scoop out seeds, and season with melted butter, salt, and pepper.
- Roast cut-side down on a baking sheet for 45-60 minutes until tender.
- Shred the squash into strands with a fork.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Stir in flour to create a roux; gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
- Simmer sauce until thickened; season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Remove from heat; stir in cheeses until melted.
- Combine shredded squash with cheese sauce; transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheeses mixed with panko breadcrumbs; bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg