Go Back

Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Squash

A healthier, lower-carb take on mac and cheese, this cheesy baked spaghetti squash is loaded with flavor and vegetables.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 7
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Spaghetti Squash
  • 5.5 cups cooked spaghetti squash from about 2 small
Cheese Sauce
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.25 cup minced onion
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour use gluten-free for GF
  • 2 cups skim milk
  • 1 cup fat-free chicken broth vegetable broth for vegetarian
  • 2 cups reduced fat mild cheddar cheese about 8 oz
  • salt and pepper to taste
Add-ins
  • 4 cups baby spinach about 4 oz
  • 0.125 cup grated parmesan cheese

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat oven to 375ºF.
  2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise; remove and discard seeds. Place squash on a baking sheet cut side down. Bake until tender, about 1 hour.
  3. Separate the strands of squash with a fork and place in a medium bowl; discard shells. Squeeze out any excess liquid from the squash if watery.
  4. Maintain the oven temperature.
  5. Heat butter and oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook about 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in flour. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring continually for 3-4 minutes.
  7. Add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly. Raise heat to medium-high until it comes to a boil and becomes smooth and thick, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Once the sauce thickens, remove from heat, add cheddar cheese, and mix well until cheese is melted.
  9. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked spaghetti squash and baby spinach to the cheese sauce and mix well. Pour into a baking dish and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
  10. Bake until bubbly and golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes.

Notes

This recipe is a great option for a lighter, comforting meal. Feel free to add cooked chicken or other vegetables to customize it.