Description

This Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a comforting, low-carb alternative to traditional potato gratin. Roasted spaghetti squash strands are combined with a rich cheese sauce made from Parmesan, cheddar, and Gruyère, then topped with buttery breadcrumbs and baked to a golden, crispy perfection. It’s a decadent yet healthy side dish perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti Squash

1 medium spaghetti squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Sauce

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Garnish

Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and prepare squash: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30–40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Make cheese sauce: While the squash roasts, combine the heavy cream, Parmesan, cheddar, and Gruyère cheeses in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth. Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using), then simmer gently for 2–3 minutes before removing from heat.
Shred squash flesh: Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Place the strands in a large bowl and mix with the prepared cheese sauce until evenly combined.
Assemble in baking dish: Transfer the squash and cheese mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the squash mixture.
Bake until golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy. For an extra golden finish, broil on high for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Serve and garnish: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy comfort dish!

Notes

For a nuttier flavor, use freshly grated cheeses rather than pre-shredded.
To make this dish lower in fat, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or omit for a gluten-free option.
Make sure to monitor the broiling step closely to avoid burning the breadcrumb topping.
Leftovers can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American