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Recipe

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Updated on 5 min read
image 2022 10 17T03 43 46 138Z Recipe

Quick Description

This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash is a low-carb, flavorful dish where roasted spaghetti squash is combined with cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese for a delicious, cheesy side. The roasted squash makes for a naturally sweet and savory base, perfect for any meal.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients List

  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 medium spaghetti squash (about 5 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 ounces whole-milk, low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded (about ¾ cup)
  • 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated (about 1 cup), divided

Instructions

Roast the Spaghetti Squash:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
    • Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Squash:
    • Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
    • Brush the cut sides of the squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with ¾ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Roast the Squash:
    • Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
    • Roast in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the squash is soft when poked with a fork and the skin is browned and blistered.

Prepare the Cheesy Mixture:

  1. Soften the Cream Cheese:
    • While the squash is roasting, place the 2 ounces of cream cheese in a large mixing bowl and let it sit out at room temperature to soften.
  2. Shred the Cheese:
    • Shred the mozzarella cheese (about ¾ cup) and grate the Parmesan cheese (about 1 cup).

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Scrape the Squash:
    • Once the squash is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
    • Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash into spaghetti-like strands. Transfer the strands into the bowl with softened cream cheese.
  2. Mix the Cheesy Sauce:
    • Add the shredded mozzarella and ¾ of the grated Parmesan to the bowl with the squash.
    • Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is well combined. The heat from the squash will help melt the cheese, creating a creamy, cheesy texture.

Final Touch:

  1. Top with Parmesan:
    • Transfer the cheesy squash mixture back into the empty squash skins or place it into a baking dish.
    • Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
  2. Broil (Optional):
    • If you prefer a golden, bubbly top, place the squash under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Serve:

  1. Serve and Enjoy:
  • Serve the cheesy garlic Parmesan spaghetti squash warm as a side dish or a main course.

Additional Notes

  • More Vegetables: You can add spinach or kale to the cheesy mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
  • Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese and a non-dairy butter substitute if you want to make this dish dairy-free.
  • Make-Ahead: The roasted squash can be prepared ahead of time. After scraping the strands, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble and bake when ready.

Dietary Info

  • Keto-Friendly
  • Low-Carb
  • Gluten-Free
  • Dairy Option (can be made dairy-free)

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Coconut Flour: Coconut flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative, though it will affect the texture.
  • Cheese Variations: You can swap mozzarella for cheddar cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
  • Squash Alternatives: You can also use zucchini or butternut squash as alternatives for a different base.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • With Protein: Serve this dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits on top for extra protein.
  • Topping Options: Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil for a more aromatic touch.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbs: 9 g
  • Net Carbs: 6 g
  • Fiber: 3 g

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a smoother texture.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the squash and prepare the cheesy mixture ahead of time. Store everything in the fridge, then combine and bake when ready to serve.

Q: What else can I add to this dish?
Feel free to add cooked chicken, sausage, or roasted vegetables like zucchini for extra flavor and variety.

Optional Personal Story

This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash has become a staple in my house — it’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a light base. I love it because it’s so versatile — I can serve it as a side or make it the star of the meal!

Call-to-Action

Try this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash today! It’s a deliciously creamy, low-carb dish that’s perfect for any keto meal.

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