Name: Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large spaghetti squash (about 3-4 pounds); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided); 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste); 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese (divided); 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (divided); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided); 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish (optional))

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The aroma of baked cheese wafts through the air as you pull a bubbling dish out of the oven, the top perfectly golden and crispy. This is the kind of warmth that fills your home and draws everyone to the kitchen, longing to indulge in a hearty bite. Each forkful of creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin steals your heart with its delightful combination of tender squash wrapped in a luscious cheese sauce. It’s an elegant twist on comfort food that leaves you feeling satisfied yet light.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Growing up, my family would gather around the table for hearty meals, and every dish was an occasion worth celebrating. This recipe reminds me of those joyful dinners, where hearty flavors and warm smiles united us. Whether it’s a chilly autumn evening or a festive family gathering, serving this dish feels like wrapping everyone in a cozy embrace. I can’t wait for you to experience the comforting taste of this creamy delight. Let’s dive into making this beautiful bowl of cheesy goodness together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 20 minutes of prep time and about an hour of cooking, this dish comes together effortlessly.
Irresistible Flavor: The creamy cheese sauce, combined with the delicate strands of spaghetti squash, creates a rich, savory experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden, bubbly topping is sure to impress your guests and make your family smile at the dinner table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect served as a main dish or a delicious side, it complements everything from roast chicken to holiday feasts.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free, you can easily switch up the cheeses for vegan alternatives if desired.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 large spaghetti squash (about 3-4 pounds): This is the star of the dish, offering a low-carb alternative to pasta. Look for one that feels firm and heavy for its size.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Butter adds richness; if you prefer, you can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter.
1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped): Onions provide a sweet base flavor; swapping them with shallots will give a milder taste.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic adds warmth and depth; using fresh is highly recommended, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This ingredient helps thicken the cheese sauce; a gluten-free blend can be used for dietary needs.
3 cups whole milk: Milk gives the sauce creaminess. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat or unsweetened almond milk.
1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste): Essential for enhancing flavors; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste): A dash of pepper adds subtle spice; swap with white pepper for a milder flavor if desired.
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: This warming spice complements the cheese beautifully, but can be omitted if you are not a fan.
1 cup grated Gruyere cheese (divided): Gruyere gives nutty, complex tones. You can substitute with Emmental or Swiss if necessary.
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (divided): Sharp cheddar adds tang; feel free to switch it with mild cheddar or a dairy-free option.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided): Parmesan lends a savory note; Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute as well.
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch on top; you can use regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish (optional)): Fresh parsley brightens the dish visually and enhances the flavor. Chives or green onions make great substitutes.

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to set the stage for baking heaven. While it warms up, carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits, ensuring the hollowed halves are ready for roasting. Drizzle the cut sides generously with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then season with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the flesh is fork-tender, which will create the perfect texture for your dish.

Shred the Squash: Once your squash is roasted and has cooled slightly, it’s time for some fun! Use a fork to scrape the inside of each half, releasing those beautiful spaghetti-like strands. Set these aside while you prepare the cheesy sauce—it’s at this moment that the flavor adventure truly begins!

Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Then, stir in the minced garlic, wafting fragrant aromas about the kitchen. Cook for an additional minute, but be cautious not to let it burn!

Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the aromatic mixture in the pan. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux that will thicken your sauce beautifully. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency we adore.

Whisk in Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. The mixture should become smooth and inviting. Turn up the heat slightly, bringing it to a gentle simmer while stirring constantly. Watch closely as it begins to thicken within 5-7 minutes—this rich base is what makes your **Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin** unforgettable!

Season it Up: Once your sauce has thickened, stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking—it’s okay if you’re a little picky about flavors! This is your chance to make it just right.

Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 3/4 cup each of Gruyere and cheddar cheese, along with the Parmesan. As the cheese melts, it transforms your sauce into pure magic, resulting in a rich, creamy concoction that you may be tempted to taste with a spoon right now!

Combine Squash and Sauce: Carefully fold the shredded spaghetti squash into your cheesy sauce, ensuring every strand is coated in that luscious goodness. This step is where the comfort food vibes truly begin to come alive! Pour this beautiful mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this crunchy blend generously over the top of your cheesy squash mixture. This will create a beautiful crust that adds delightful texture when baked.

Bake Until Golden: Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and allow it to bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and bubbly, creating that enticing visual that will draw everyone to the table! When it’s ready, the edges will be sizzling and you may spot a few deliciously crispy bits peeking through.

Let it Rest: After removing the dish from the oven, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before diving in. This is an important moment that will help your **Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin** set slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve hot to your eager guests!

Storing & Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), allow the Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin to cool completely before storing. You can keep it at room temperature for a couple of hours, but for longer storage, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, pack it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different after freezing, but a little fresh cheese sprinkled on top can easily revive its creamy charm!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Watch for burning: Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs as they bake; if they brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil.
Room temperature ingredients: Bringing milk and cheese to room temperature can help them melt into the sauce more smoothly.
Cook the garlic lightly: If garlic browns too much, it can develop a bitter taste; keep it fragrant and lightly cooked.
Make it your own: Try adding cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for an extra flavor boost and nutrients.
Prepare ahead: You can assemble the dish a day in advance, storing it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

There’s nothing quite like digging into a warm, inviting bowl of Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin. Rich, flavorful, and surprisingly light, this dish brings both nostalgia and comfort to your table. Don’t hesitate to add your own flair—whether it’s a kick of spice or a sprinkling of herbs—and have fun with it! I’m so excited for you to enjoy this delicious recipe, and I know it will become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Gruyere and cheddar are wonderful choices, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Mozzarella would give a delightful stretch, while feta can bring a tangy twist. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change depending on your selections!

How can I make it vegan-friendly?

You can easily make this dish vegan by using plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives. Also, replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. This way, you won’t have to sacrifice flavor or comfort!

Can I prep this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the cheese sauce and roast the squash ahead of time and combine them before baking. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the dish just before baking it. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings!

Why is my squash watery?

Spaghetti squash naturally has a high water content. To reduce this, make sure to roast it long enough so that the strands are tender, and consider draining any excess liquid before mixing it with the sauce. This will ensure your Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is perfectly creamy, not soggy.