Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe
This Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic cheesy casserole. Featuring roasted spaghetti squash combined with sautéed onions and garlic, tangy Greek yogurt, and sharp cheddar cheese, this dish offers a creamy, flavorful, yet low-carb alternative perfect for a comforting meal. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a wholesome option for family dinners or entertaining guests.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Spaghetti Squash
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 tbsp olive oil (divided)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Seasoning
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided: 1 cup for mixture, ½ cup for topping)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Using a sharp knife, halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds to create clean cavities.
- Roast Squash: Brush the cut sides of the squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 35–40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: While the squash roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes or until translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Shred Squash: When the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, transferring it to a large mixing bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed onions and garlic, plain Greek yogurt, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper to the shredded squash. Mix everything thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Grease a casserole dish lightly and transfer the squash mixture into it. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Notes
- You can substitute sharp cheddar cheese with a lower-fat cheese options to reduce fat content.
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the onion and garlic sauté.
- Make sure not to overcook the squash during roasting to maintain its tender texture without becoming mushy.
- This dish can be prepared a day in advance and baked just before serving.
- Using plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein while keeping the dish healthy.
Keywords: Spaghetti squash, au gratin, healthy casserole, baked squash, Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, low carb, vegetarian
