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Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 137 reviews

Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a healthy and comforting dish that combines the tender, slightly sweet strands of roasted spaghetti squash with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Topped with a golden, bubbly crust of cheese and panko breadcrumbs, it’s a delicious and guilt-free twist on the traditional au gratin, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti Squash

  • 1 large spaghetti squash (about 3–4 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 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
  • 3/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese
  • 3/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Topping

  • 1/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the spaghetti squash.
  2. Prepare the spaghetti squash: Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. If too hard to cut, microwave for 2-3 minutes to soften slightly. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center.
  3. Season and roast the squash: Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with 2 tablespoons melted butter and season generously with salt and pepper. Place the halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 45-60 minutes until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  4. Shred the squash: Once cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands and set aside.
  5. Melt butter for sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
  6. Sauté onion and garlic: Add chopped onion to the melted butter and cook 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, avoiding burning.
  7. Make a roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
  8. Whisk in milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
  9. Simmer the sauce: Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  10. Season the sauce: Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Adjust seasonings to taste.
  11. Add cheeses: Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup Gruyere, 3/4 cup sharp cheddar, and 1/4 cup Parmesan until melted and sauce is creamy.
  12. Combine squash and sauce: Add shredded spaghetti squash to the cheese sauce and gently stir to fully coat the squash.
  13. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
  14. Prepare topping: In a small bowl, mix remaining 1/4 cup Gruyere, 1/4 cup cheddar, 1/4 cup Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs.
  15. Sprinkle topping and bake: Evenly sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the squash and bake in preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly on top.
  16. Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh touch.

Notes

  • Microwaving the squash briefly before cutting can make it easier and safer to handle.
  • Make sure to stir the roux constantly to prevent burning and ensure a smooth sauce.
  • The cheeses can be substituted with alternatives like mozzarella or fontina for different flavor profiles.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven to preserve the crust crispiness.

Keywords: Spaghetti Squash, Au Gratin, Healthy Comfort Food, Cheese Sauce, Vegetarian, Low Fat Dinner

Find it online: https://bakedbylisa.com/spaghetti-squash-au-gratin-a-delicious-and-healthy-recipe/