How do I know when spaghetti squash is cooked?

You can tell when spaghetti squash is cooked by piercing it with a fork. The flesh should be tender and easily scraped into strands. It usually takes about 30-40 minutes in a preheated oven set to 400°F (200°C). If the skin feels soft to the touch, it’s a good sign that it's finished cooking.

Can I prepare spaghetti squash in advance?

Yes, you can prepare spaghetti squash in advance. Cook and scrape the strands from the shell, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Pre-cooked spaghetti squash can be enjoyed for several days and is great for meal prep!

What cheese works best for au gratin?

For a traditional au gratin, cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Swiss are favorite choices. They melt beautifully and contribute a deliciously creamy texture. Feel free to mix different cheese varieties to achieve your preferred flavor profile.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is naturally gluten-free as it uses spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta. The other ingredients are also gluten-free, but it's a good idea to check the labels on packaged items like cheese.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze this dish, but it's best to do so before baking it. Prepare the spaghetti squash and the cheese sauce, then combine and store in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, bake it, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go!

Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 spaghetti squash
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup milk or cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place cut side down on a baking sheet and bake for about 30-40 minutes, until fork-tender.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the milk or cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat until warm and stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape out the strands into a large bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over the strands and mix well.
Transfer to a greased baking dish, topping with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. You can customize the cheese blend for a unique twist.

Author: Sarah Mitchell
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 30mg