Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that fits into your low-carb lifestyle, I have just the recipe for you! This Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin has become a family favorite in our home. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a delightful alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up something that feels indulgent without the guilt. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—make it ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to serve!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously creamy: The combination of mozzarella and Greek yogurt creates a rich texture that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Easy preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish fits seamlessly into any busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness—it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Low-carb goodness: Enjoy all the comfort of pasta without the carbs—perfect for those watching their intake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin:

For the Base

• 3 cups cooked spaghetti squash (pulled apart)
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

For Flavor

• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt (to preference)
• Pepper (to preference)

For Topping

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

• Add some veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli or spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Swap the cheese: Try using different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
• Herb it up: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.

How to Make Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

First things first! If you haven’t already done so, cook your spaghetti squash. You can roast it in the oven or microwave until tender. Once it’s cool enough to handle, use a fork to pull apart the strands. This step is crucial as it gives you that delightful spaghetti-like texture.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your cooked spaghetti squash with eggs, mozzarella, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything together ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, the egg will help bind everything together during baking.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour your creamy mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly so that every part gets nice and bubbly during baking. This is where magic happens—baking transforms our humble ingredients into something truly special!

Step 4: Top with Parmesan

Sprinkle grated parmesan over the top before popping it into the oven. The cheese will melt and develop a golden crust that adds texture and flavor—trust me; this step is worth it!

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly! Once it’s done, let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish as your new go-to side!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Creating a dish that combines comfort and healthy ingredients can be a delightful challenge, but with a few tips, you’ll be well on your way to a creamy, cheesy success!

• Choose the right squash: Opt for a fresh spaghetti squash that’s firm and free from blemishes. This ensures you get the best texture and flavor for your au gratin.

• Cook the squash thoroughly: Make sure to cook your spaghetti squash until it’s fork-tender before mixing it into your dish. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps avoid any watery consistency in your final recipe.

• Whisk eggs well: Be thorough when whisking the eggs with the other ingredients. A well-combined mixture will help bind everything together, giving you that perfect creamy texture.

• Season generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning with salt and pepper. These simple additions elevate the flavors and bring out the richness of each ingredient in the dish.

• Broil for a golden finish: For an extra touch, consider broiling your au gratin for the last few minutes of cooking. This step adds a beautiful golden crust and enhances the overall presentation.

How to Serve Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Serving Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of chili flakes can give your au gratin an exciting kick.
• Lemon zest: A light grating of lemon zest on top just before serving can enhance the flavors beautifully with its zesty aroma.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: The crispness of steamed broccoli complements the creamy texture of the au gratin while adding vibrant color to your plate.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their nutty flavor and caramelization from roasting make them a fantastic side that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Mixed green salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the au gratin, making it an ideal accompaniment.
• Garlic bread: For those who want to indulge further, serve some warm garlic bread on the side to soak up every bit of that delicious creaminess!

Enjoy serving this delightful Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin at your next dinner gathering or cozy family meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips to help you keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the dish thoroughly before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through; if using an oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Enjoy within 2-3 days after reheating for the best taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting recipe:

Can I make Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin without cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without using dairy.

What is the best way to cook spaghetti squash for this recipe?

The best way is to roast it in the oven. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes or until tender.

Can I use other vegetables instead of spaghetti squash?

Yes! You can try zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice as alternatives if you’re looking for different flavors.

How do I ensure my Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin turns out creamy?

Make sure to mix well after adding Greek yogurt and eggs; they help create that delightful creaminess.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin becomes a go-to comfort food in your kitchen! It’s not only healthy and satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Enjoy making it for your family or friends, and relish every creamy bite together. Happy cooking!