Spaghetti "Au Gratin"
Spaghetti Au Gratin features tender pasta combined with a creamy, cheesy sauce, accented by sautéed onions and optional peas for added texture. Topped with crunchy bread crumbs, it offers a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors and satisfying richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare spaghetti according to package directions and drain.
- Sauté chopped onion with butter until soft.
- Add flour and cook, stirring for 1 minute.
- Gradually add 2 1/2 cups milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook until sauce thickens and bubbles for 1 minute.
- Stir in salt, pepper, and powdered mustard (if using).
- Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 of the Parmesan cheese.
- Combine the sauce with cooked spaghetti and cooked peas (if using).
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with fresh bread crumbs and remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden and bubbly, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or basil to the sautéed onions. If you don't have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can work as a substitute. Ensure to stir the sauce continuously while adding milk to prevent lumps. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option or swap out peas for spinach or broccoli, common in many Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spaghetti 'Au Gratin' alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with this dish. For a twist, consider serving it with a side of sautéed zucchini or roasted vegetables, which can complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti "Au Gratin" contains roughly 1489 calories, with 24g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2848mg per serving (124% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti and sauce ahead of time. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it heats through.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or use a blend of mozzarella and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Remember, the cheese adds a key flavor, so choose something that complements the richness of the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Spaghetti 'Au Gratin' recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it primarily uses pasta, vegetables, and dairy. For a vegan adaptation, use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives. Explore more vegetarian recipes to find various options that fit your dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).