Spaghetti Squash With Herbed Garlic Sauce
A deliciously simple dish featuring roasted spaghetti squash topped with a creamy, herbed garlic cheese sauce, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prick the spaghetti squash with a fork 2 to 3 times to prevent bursting.
- Place the squash in a pan and bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the squash depresses easily when pressed with fingers.
- Remove from oven and halve immediately to prevent continued cooking.
- Let cool briefly, then scoop out seeds.
- Use a fork to pull out the spaghetti-like strands, leaving only the shell.
- There should be approximately 4 cups of strands.
- Heat butter in a small pan over low heat.
- Add flour and minced garlic; stir over low heat for 3 minutes.
- Gradually stir in milk, thyme, salt, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and cheese melts.
- Pour the sauce over the spaghetti squash strands and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your herbed garlic sauce, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, feel free to substitute with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. For a lighter sauce, substitute half of the milk with vegetable broth. This dish is a great option for those looking for vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti squash dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For added protein, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. You could also serve it with crusty bread, like White Bread(Three Loaves), for a satisfying dinner. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the strands in a microwave-safe bowl and cover them loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Squash With Herbed Garlic Sauce contains roughly 787 calories, with 11g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 753mg per serving (33% 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 use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti squash with other types of squash like butternut or acorn squash. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Butternut squash is sweeter, while acorn squash has a nuttier taste. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as these squashes may require different baking durations.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this spaghetti squash with herbed garlic sauce vegan, replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Use a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk, and swap the Cheddar cheese for a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to maintain the cheesy flavor without dairy.
What can I do with leftover spaghetti squash?
Leftover spaghetti squash can be used in a variety of ways. Mix it into a frittata or omelet for a hearty breakfast, or stir it into soups for added texture. You can also use it as a filling in burritos or wraps, or simply reheat and enjoy it as a side dish. This versatility makes it a great choice for meal prep!
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).