Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin

Why Make This Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin

Who doesn’t love a creamy, cheesy dish, especially when it’s made with a healthy twist? Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin combines the comforting flavors of a traditional gratin with the nutritional benefits of spaghetti squash. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a dish that feels indulgent, but is much lighter than its potato or pasta counterparts. This recipe is perfect for those cozy dinners and can serve as a hearty side dish or a vegetarian main course. Plus, the beautiful golden crust adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the velvety cheese sauce.

How to Make Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin

Making Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin is simpler than you might think! The dish involves roasting the spaghetti squash to tender perfection before mixing it with a creamy, cheesy sauce made with aromatic onions, garlic, and a blend of Gruyere, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. By the time it’s finished baking, your kitchen will fill with a delicious aroma, enticing everyone to the table.

Ingredients:

1 large spaghetti squash (about 3-4 pounds)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup grated Gruyere cheese (divided)
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy bits.

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it over the cut sides of the squash. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the squash is easily pierced with a fork and the flesh is tender. Allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes, then use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands and set aside.

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the flour is golden and smells toasted.

Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg, tasting and adjusting the seasonings as needed.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in ¾ cup of Gruyere cheese, ¾ cup of cheddar cheese, and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Add the shredded spaghetti squash to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup of Gruyere cheese, ¼ cup of cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, and the panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the spaghetti squash.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. If the topping isn’t golden after 25 minutes, switch the oven to broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 15g

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier option. If you’re hosting a gathering, Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin makes a great centerpiece, inviting everyone to dig in with a big spoon.

How to Store Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat at 350°F until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps maintain the crispy topping.

Expert Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin

Choose the right squash: Look for a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth skin. Avoid any squashes with blemishes or soft spots.
Roast until tender: Make sure the squash is thoroughly roasted, as undercooked squash will be hard to shred and may be stringy.

Control the creaminess: For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the whole milk with low-fat milk or non-dairy alternatives like unsweetened almond milk.
Add extra flavors: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Fontina, for a unique twist. Adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach can also boost the nutrition and flavor.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicy version.

Herb-infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the sauce for added depth of flavor.
Meaty Version: Stir in cooked ground turkey or sausage for a heartier meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes! While spaghetti squash is a fantastic option, you can substitute with butternut squash or zucchini. Keep in mind that cooking times may change based on the squash used.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, and ensure your cheese is gluten-free.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the squash and prepare the cheese sauce a day in advance. Simply combine and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Squash with Cheese Gratin is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort. The combination of creamy cheese and tender squash creates a dish that is both satisfying and healthy. Whether you’re enjoying it on a weeknight or serving it at a gathering, it promises to impress your family and friends. So why not give this delectable recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you, and I’d love to hear about your cooking experience! Happy cooking!