Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Recipe Introduction

Fancy something cheesy and comforting, but without the guilt? Me too! This Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is my answer to that craving.

Think classic au gratin vibes but with a healthy, veggie twist.

Quick Hook

Ever wondered if you could have your comfort food and eat it too? Well, with this Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin , you can! It's cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavour, but uses spaghetti squash instead of potatoes.

You know, for a bit of good stuff.

Brief Overview

Au Gratin dishes have been gracing tables for yonks. They are a French culinary staple of baked dishes topped with cheese and breadcrumbs.

This Spaghetti Squash Recipe keeps the essence but swaps potatoes for spaghetti squash . This recipe takes about 1 hour 10 minutes to make, from prep to oven.

It will serve 4 to 6 people so it's perfect for a family dinner.

Main Benefits

This Healthy Au Gratin recipe is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. Spaghetti squash is naturally low in carbs, so this is a great option for those watching their intake.

I mean who doesn't love Low Carb Au Gratin and Keto Sides ? It's absolutely perfect for a cosy night in or a potluck with friends.

It is also Gluten-Free Au Gratin . This recipe is special because it manages to be both incredibly comforting and surprisingly good for you.

Alright, now that we've whetted your appetite, let's dive into what you'll need. Don't worry, the ingredients list is straightforward!

Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe Card

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Preparation time:25 Mins

Cooking time:45 Mins

Servings:4-6 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2-3 pounds/900g-1.4kg), halved lengthwise and seeded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (2.5 ml)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (1.25 ml)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57g)
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (30g)
• 3 cups whole milk (710ml), warmed
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (2.5 ml)
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper (1.25 ml)
• Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (115g)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g), plus extra for topping
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (3g)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (3g)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle squash halves with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast until tender, about 35-40 minutes. Let cool slightly.
• Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, whisking constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
• Use a fork to scrape the squash flesh into strands.
• In a large bowl, combine the spaghetti squash, béchamel sauce, Gruyère cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. Mix well.
• Pour the squash mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese. Bake until golden brown and bubbly, about 20 minutes.
• Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:350 calories

Fat:22g

Fiber:5g

Recipe Info

Category:Side Dish

Cuisine:American

What You'll Need for This Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Delight

Get ready to raid your fridge and cupboards. Here’s what you’ll need for the best Vegetable Au Gratin this side of the Channel:

Here's How to Make This Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty! Here's a step-by-step guide to making your very own Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin .

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!

Alright, fancy making some Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin ? It's easier than you think, I promise! Here's what you'll need.

It's like a classic Au Gratin but healthy . Honestly, you won't miss the potatoes one bit.

Main Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2-3 pounds or 900g-1.4kg ). A good squash should feel heavy for its size.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil ( 15 ml ).
• ½ teaspoon sea salt ( 2.5 ml ).
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper ( 1.25 ml ).
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter ( 57g ).
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour ( 30g ).
• 3 cups whole milk ( 710ml ). Warming the milk helps avoid lumps!
• ½ teaspoon sea salt ( 2.5 ml ).
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper ( 1.25 ml ).
• A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional).
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese ( 115g ).
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese ( 50g ), plus extra for topping.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley ( 3g ).
• 1 clove garlic, minced ( 3g ).

Seasoning Notes

For this Spaghetti Squash Recipe , it is key the right balance of flavor is achieved. I love the classic nutmeg with cheese.

It's just a vibe . If you are not a parsley fan, you can use chives or thyme!

Garlic is vital, and the pepper is essential. It helps with the earthiness of the squash . Did you know that white pepper gives a subtle heat? It goes beautifully with a Cheesy Spaghetti Squash .

You can substitute with black pepper but use it sparingly. For that flavour enhancing, I sometimes add a tiny bit of mustard powder to my sauce.

It is a trick of the trade , my darling.

Equipment Needed

You don't need fancy gadgets for this Vegetable Au Gratin !

• Baking sheet.
• Large saucepan.
• Whisk.
• 9x13 inch ( 23x33cm ) baking dish.
• A decent fork will help shred the spaghetti squash into tasty strands!

No whisk? A sturdy fork will do in a pinch. Honestly, this is a no-judgement zone .

You want a Healthy Au Gratin ? Then Spaghetti Squash Casserole it's your new favourite dish.

So, there you have it! All the kit you need to make Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin .

This Low Carb Au Gratin is amazing , and that Gluten-Free Au Gratin ? A guaranteed favourite!

Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin: Cheesy Goodness!

Honestly, who doesn't love a good Au Gratin ? But, sometimes, the traditional potato version can feel a bit heavy, you know? That's where my Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin comes in! It's the same comfort food vibes, but lighter and packed with goodness.

Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. It's a total win-win! Think of it as a healthy Au Gratin that still scratches that cheesy itch.

Are you ready to ditch the starch overload? Let's get cooking!

One of the coolest things about Spaghetti Squash is how versatile it is. It's a great Spaghetti Squash Recipe especially for people that are trying to eat low carb and can be used on Keto Sides .

Prep Steps: The Secret to Success

First, the mise en place . Honestly, having everything prepped makes all the difference. Halve and seed your squash. Get your cheese shredded.

Minced garlic. Chopped parsley. You know, the usual suspects. Time saving tip is to use pre-shredded cheese to cut on time.

Trust me; you'll thank yourself later. Always remember when working with a knife, keep fingers tucked in so you don't get hurt!.

Step-by-Step: Let's Get Cooking!

1. Roast the squash: 400° F ( 200° C) for 35- 40 minutes . Cut-side down!
2. Béchamel time: Melt butter, whisk in flour, cook for 1- 2 minutes . It should form a paste!
3. Whisk in warm milk, simmer until thickened, about 5- 7 minutes .
4. Scrape the squash "spaghetti" with a fork. Easy peasy!
5. Combine squash, béchamel, cheeses, parsley, and garlic. Mix well.
6. Bake: About 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Visual cue: Golden brown and bubbly? It's ready. This is a great Vegetable Au Gratin version of the classic

Pro Tips: Au Gratin Ace

Want to take your Spaghetti Squash Casserole to the next level? Grate your own cheese! Honestly, it melts so much better.

Another trick? Warm the milk before adding it to the roux. This helps prevent lumps. Who wants a lumpy sauce, right? A common mistake is overcooking the squash.

It should be tender but not mushy. Honestly, nobody wants mushy Cheesy Spaghetti Squash . For a flavour twist, stir cooked bacon into the casserole just before baking.

I did this once, and oh my gosh! Delicious!.

If you need a Low Carb Au Gratin or Gluten-Free Au Gratin option, this recipe fits the bill perfectly! It's such a fantastic way to enjoy the taste of Squash Au Gratin without the guilt.

Recipe Notes for Your Amazing Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

So, you're about to make this ridiculously good Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin ? Ace! Here are a few extra bits and bobs to make sure it's absolutely perfect.

Honestly, this Spaghetti Squash Recipe is gonna be a winner.

Ace Serving Suggestions

Want to make your Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin look like it came from a fancy restaurant? No problem! Serve individual portions in small ramekins.

A sprinkle of fresh parsley will always make the dish look a bit more fresh.

This Cheesy Spaghetti Squash dish is brilliant with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. For drinks, try a crisp white wine. Sauvignon Blanc is spot on.

Super Storage Tips

Got leftovers? This Healthy Au Gratin can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it's in an airtight container.

Freezing isn't ideal, as the texture can change, but if you must, wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to a month.

Reheat it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through. Just remember, it might not be quite as creamy.

Cracking Variations

Fancy a change? This Vegetable Au Gratin is super versatile.

For a Low Carb Au Gratin or Keto Sides , use almond flour instead of regular flour in the béchamel.

Make sure you use a keto-friendly cheese and it'll be a smash! For a Gluten-Free Au Gratin , just ensure your flour blend is certified gluten-free.

To make it vegetarian, bechamel sauce can be made with vegetable broth instead of milk. You know? So, make sure everyone can enjoy this Squash Au Gratin .

If it's autumn, try adding some roasted butternut squash for extra sweetness. It's lush!.

Nutrition Basics of Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Alright, let's keep it simple: this dish is a bit of alright when it comes to nutrition. You're looking at roughly 350 calories per serving.

Loads of protein coming in at 18g and healthy fats at 22g, thanks to the cheese, plus a fair whack of fibre.

It's far healthier than your standard potato au gratin. The spaghetti squash itself is packed with vitamins. Think of it as comfort food that's actually good for you.

Honestly, don't be intimidated! This Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is easier than it looks. Give it a go, and you'll be chuffed with yourself. Happy cooking!