Healthy spaghetti squash au gratin with cheese and seasonings in a baking dish

Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a wonderful dish that gives you the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic au gratin without all the calories. It is a lighter option that still fills you up. Plus, spaghetti squash is a great low-carb substitute for pasta, making it perfect for those looking to eat healthier. This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to make and packed with nutrients!

How to Make Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Ingredients

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Optional seasonings

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).
  2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
  3. Brush the cut sides with olive oil, place face-down on a baking sheet, and roast for 35-40 minutes until tender.
  4. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil until softened; add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.
  5. Shred the cooled roasted squash into noodle-like strands using a fork.
  6. In a large bowl, combine shredded squash with sautéed onions, garlic, Greek yogurt, 1 cup of cheese, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
  7. Transfer to a greased casserole dish and top with remaining cheese.
  8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

How to Serve Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

You can serve Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin as a side dish or as a main meal. It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a fresh salad. For a touch of freshness, add some chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving.

How to Store Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

Tips to Make Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

  • Make sure to roast the spaghetti squash well; it should be soft to easily shred into strands.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrients.
  • Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Gruyère, to change the taste.

Variation

For a dairy-free version, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use dairy-free cheese. This will make the dish suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spaghetti squash?
Yes, you can use frozen spaghetti squash. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before mixing it with the other ingredients.

2. How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done roasting?
The spaghetti squash is done when you can easily pierce it with a fork and the skin is tender. It should feel soft when you press it.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for a day before baking.