Description
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin, a delightful twist on classic comfort food. This healthy recipe transforms spaghetti squash into a rich dish layered with a velvety cheese sauce and topped with a golden panko crust. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish offers a guilt-free alternative to traditional mac and cheese while satisfying your cravings. With easy preparation steps and minimal ingredients, even novice cooks can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress everyone at the table. Elevate your dining experience with this nutritious, flavorful dish that pairs well with various proteins or can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian option.
Ingredients
- 1 large spaghetti squash
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the spaghetti squash, scoop out seeds, season with melted butter, salt, and pepper.
- Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; roast for 45-60 minutes until tender.
- Shred the squash with a fork and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt remaining butter; sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Simmer until thickened; season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Stir in three-fourths of the cheeses until melted; mix with shredded squash.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish; top with remaining cheese and panko mixture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg