This Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a comforting and indulgent dish that transforms tender spaghetti squash into a cheesy, garlicky masterpiece. Packed with creamy Greek yogurt, gooey mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan, this recipe is a lighter twist on traditional au gratin dishes while still delivering rich flavors and a satisfying texture. Perfect as a side dish or a main course!
Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked spaghetti squash (pulled apart into strands)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt , to taste
- Pepper , to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Lightly grease a baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches or similar size) with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- Add the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Stir in the cooked spaghetti squash strands, shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble and Top
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes , or until the top is bubbly, golden brown, and slightly crispy.
- For extra browning, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
- Serve warm as a side dish or as a main course with a side salad or garlic bread.
Tips for Success:
- Roast your squash : To cook the spaghetti squash, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and roast cut-side down on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until tender. Use a fork to scrape out the strands.
- Add-ins : Customize with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked bacon for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it ahead : Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~12g
Enjoy this Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin as a deliciously cheesy and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or holiday feasts. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and golden topping make it a standout side or main course!