Description
This Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is a comforting and delicious gluten-free side dish featuring tender roasted spaghetti squash strands coated in a rich, cheesy Gruyere and Parmesan cream sauce, baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a flavorful, low-carb alternative to traditional potato au gratin that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 to 3 1/2 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Optional Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Roast Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, then place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Scrape Squash Strands: Once cooled enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into stringy strands and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded Gruyere, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, thyme, and onion powder. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Sauce and Squash: Pour the cheese sauce over the spaghetti squash strands. Stir well until all the strands are thoroughly coated with the sauce.
- Bake Au Gratin: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Optionally sprinkle a little extra Gruyere or Parmesan cheese on top for a golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, stir in cooked bacon pieces or caramelized onions before baking.
- To lighten the dish, replace half of the heavy cream with milk.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
