If you’re craving a dish that beautifully balances comfort and health, the Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. This casserole combines tender roasted spaghetti squash strands with creamy Alfredo sauce, juicy chicken, and melted cheese layers, creating an irresistible flavor-packed meal that your family will adore. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of classic Chicken Alfredo with a lighter, veggie-packed twist that still feels indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, from the nutrient-rich spaghetti squash providing a delightful texture to the savory chicken and luscious Alfredo sauce that bring everything together in creamy harmony. These simple but essential components make this casserole both comforting and nourishing.
- 2 medium spaghetti squash (about 3–4 pounds total): This low-carb veggie acts as a natural noodle substitute, offering a tender, stringy texture that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced): Adds protein and heartiness; rotisserie chicken works perfectly for convenience.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought): Creamy and rich, this sauce is the luscious base that ties the casserole together.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy topping everyone loves.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Brings sharp, nutty flavor that enriches the sauce and layers.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds subtle depth and warmth to the dish’s flavor profile.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Infuses classic herby notes that uplift the entire casserole.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting squash): Ensures the squash caramelizes slightly, bringing out its natural sweetness.
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, optional garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish when sprinkled on top.
- 1 cup steamed broccoli (optional): Adds a pop of color and nutrition, melding well with the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms (optional): Earthy, meaty mushrooms deepen the flavor complexity.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Spaghetti Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for perfectly roasted squash. Carefully slice the spaghetti squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, then season them with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30 to 40 minutes until tender. Once cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. This creates the base texture that makes the Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe so delightful.
Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce (If Making Homemade)
Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat and sautéing minced garlic until fragrant. Then stir in heavy cream and let it simmer until slightly thickened. Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is luxuriously smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you like, which adds a subtle warmth. Whether homemade or store-bought, the Alfredo sauce is what makes this casserole irresistibly creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Lower your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Begin by spreading a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the spaghetti squash strands, followed by half the cooked chicken, then half of the Alfredo sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers one more time and finish with a generous topping of shredded mozzarella cheese for that golden, bubbly crust.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese on top turns beautifully golden and bubbly. This step melds all those flavors together while giving you that comforting casserole vibe that’s hard to resist.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a pop of color and brightness to your casserole, cutting through the richness of the sauce. It’s a simple touch that makes your plate look inviting and tastes fresh with every bite.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balances the richness and rounds out the meal. Steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms folded right into the casserole also provide a lovely variety in texture and nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins and broil each one briefly to create a crispy cheese top. Or layer the casserole into a clear baking dish so the beautiful layers of squash, chicken, and cheese are visible—simplicity meets wow factor!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, allowing you to savor the flavors again without any fuss.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain its creamy texture and delicious taste.
Reheating
To reheat, warm portions gently in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly. This keeps the sauce creamy and the cheese perfectly melted.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash instead of spaghetti squash?
Spaghetti squash is unique because of its noodle-like strands after roasting, which other squashes don’t replicate. While you can experiment with butternut or acorn squash, they won’t provide the same texture but will add their own delicious flavor.
Is it better to use homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Both work well! Homemade sauce lets you control ingredients and customize flavors, but high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce saves time and still provides that creamy texture the casserole needs.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To keep it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers to keep the casserole hearty and flavorful.
How do I know when the spaghetti squash is cooked properly?
The squash is done when the skin can easily be pierced with a fork and the flesh strands separate effortlessly when shredded, offering a tender yet slightly firm bite.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it refrigerated, and bake it fresh before serving. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe that makes it a go-to for cozy dinners that impress. Its incredible combination of textures and flavors wrapped in creamy, cheesy goodness delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find a new family favorite that never fails to delight!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a comforting, low-carb twist on classic Alfredo pasta. Roasted spaghetti squash replaces traditional noodles, layered with tender cooked chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and melted cheeses, then baked to bubbly perfection. Optional vegetables like broccoli and sautéed mushrooms add extra flavor and nutrition, making it a satisfying family-friendly meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
Spaghetti Squash
- 2 medium spaghetti squash (about 3–4 pounds total)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting squash)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Protein and Vegetables
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced, e.g., rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup steamed broccoli (optional)
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms (optional)
Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter (if making homemade Alfredo)
- 2 minced garlic cloves (if making homemade Alfredo)
- 1 cup heavy cream (if making homemade Alfredo)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for homemade sauce)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice each spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30–40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily pierceable with a fork. Let cool slightly, then use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce (if homemade): Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes. Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg. Alternatively, use store-bought Alfredo sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the spaghetti squash strands, then half of the cooked chicken, followed by half of the Alfredo sauce. Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat the layers ending with shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Spaghetti squash can be roasted a day ahead to save time when assembling the casserole.
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Optional vegetables such as steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms can be added to the layers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If using store-bought Alfredo sauce, choose a brand you like and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- This casserole can be made gluten-free by ensuring the Alfredo sauce and other ingredients do not contain gluten additives.
