Baked Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin topped with cheese and herbs

Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious and nutritious meal. This dish offers all the comfort of traditional gratin with a healthier twist by using spaghetti squash instead of pasta. It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and a perfect way to enjoy vegetables.

How to Make Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Ingredients

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: ¼ tsp paprika or dried thyme

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
  2. Halve the spaghetti squash, scoop out the seeds, and brush the cut sides with olive oil.
  3. Roast the squash face-down on a baking sheet for 35–40 minutes until it’s tender.
  4. While the squash is roasting, sauté the diced onions in a skillet with a little olive oil until they soften, which takes about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  5. After the squash has cooled, shred it into noodle-like strands.
  6. In a bowl, mix the shredded squash with the sautéed onions, garlic, Greek yogurt, 1 cup of shredded cheese, salt, and black pepper.
  7. Transfer this mixture to a greased casserole dish and top it with the remaining cheese.
  8. Bake the dish at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden.

How to Serve Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

You can serve Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin as a main dish or a side. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese for added flavor.

How to Store Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

If you have leftovers, let the gratin cool down before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3–4 days. You can also freeze it, and it will last for about a month. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

  • Ensure you don’t overcook the spaghetti squash. It should be tender but not mushy.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Variation

You can make a vegan version of this dish by using plant-based yogurt and cheese alternatives. You could also swap the cheddar for dairy-free cheeses to suit your dietary preferences.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it.

Is spaghetti squash healthy?
Absolutely! It’s low in calories and carbs and a great source of vitamins and minerals.

Can I use other types of squash?
You can try other types of squash, like butternut or acorn squash, but the cooking times may vary.