Imagine a casserole that combines the tender, slightly sweet strands of spaghetti squash with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and a hint of Italian seasoning. This Spaghetti Squash Casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The flavors blend seamlessly, creating a dish that’s both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta or simply want to explore new ways to use spaghetti squash, this recipe is sure to delight. The cultural significance of this dish lies in its versatility and adaptability, making it a staple in many modern kitchens.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup sour cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 ounces white cheddar, grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ounce freshly grated Parmesan, divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 4 ounces mozzarella, grated
Instructions:
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Pre-cook the squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half, crosswise, and scoop out the seeds. Place cut-side down on a prepared baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the squash can be squeezed.
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Scoop out the flesh: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Then, scoop the flesh of the squash into a large bowl. Add the butter and let it melt.
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Mix the filling: Add the sour cream, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to the bowl. Stir to combine. Then stir in the eggs, cheddar, and half of the Parmesan until well combined.
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Prepare the baking dish: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
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Combine squash and filling: Add the cooked squash strands to the bowl with the filling mixture. Mix well until all the squash is coated with the cheesy mixture.
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Transfer to baking dish: Transfer the squash mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
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Bake until golden: Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Sprinkle with basil before serving.
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Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.
Top Tips:
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Choose the right squash: Opt for a medium-sized spaghetti squash, as it will yield about 4 cups of cooked squash.
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Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic adds a depth of flavor that jarred garlic cannot match. However, if you only have jarred garlic, use it sparingly.
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Don’t overcook the squash: The squash should be tender but still slightly firm. Overcooking can make it mushy and unpleasant.
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Experiment with cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Fontina or Gruyère for added flavor.
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Make ahead: Prepare the squash and filling mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving.
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Leftovers are great: This casserole reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. Enjoy it as a side dish or even as a light lunch.
Variations:
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Add ground meat: Mix in some ground beef or turkey for added protein and flavor.
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Spicy twist: Increase the red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
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Herby twist: Add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added depth.
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Veggie mix-in: Add some sautéed spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
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Cheesy crust: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top of the casserole before baking for an extra cheesy crust.
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Breakfast twist: Mix in some scrambled eggs or diced ham for a breakfast-inspired casserole.
Nutritional Guide:
| Servings | Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 201 kcal | 12g | 10g | 10g |
Additional Nutritional Notes: This Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a great option for those following a keto diet, with only 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving. The combination of cheese and eggs provides a good balance of protein and fat, making it a satisfying and filling meal. The spaghetti squash adds fiber and vitamins, making it a nutritious and delicious choice for any meal.
