If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin has quickly become a favorite in our home. Imagine tender, roasted spaghetti squash mingling with sautéed onions and garlic, all smothered in creamy Greek yogurt and melted sharp cheddar. It’s comfort food without the guilt!

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s a dish that brings everyone together. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb and gluten-free—so you can indulge without compromising on your health goals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time.
Family-friendly: Kids (and adults) will love the cheesy goodness—it’s a sneakily healthy way to get more veggies!
Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Flavor-packed: The combination of flavors from the roasted squash and savory toppings creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze! You’ll find they are all simple, wholesome staples that come together beautifully in this dish.

1 medium spaghetti squash
1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic (minced)
½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: ¼ tsp paprika or dried thyme

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

Add extra veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a little kick!
Try different cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
Herb it up: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a bright touch to the dish.

How to Make Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brushing the cut sides with olive oil adds flavor and helps with roasting. Place them face-down on a baking sheet and roast for 35–40 minutes or until they’re tender. This step is essential because roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

While your squash is roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onions in a bit of olive oil until they soften—about 5 minutes should do. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. This step builds layers of flavor that elevate your dish!

Step 3: Shred the Squash

Once your roasted squash has cooled enough to handle, use a fork to shred it into noodle-like strands. This is where the magic happens! The shredded squash will serve as the perfect base for your gratin.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded squash with your sautéed onions and garlic, Greek yogurt, 1 cup of cheese, salt, pepper, and any optional spices like paprika or thyme. Combining these ingredients creates a rich filling that’s packed with flavor!

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer your mixture into a greased casserole dish, making sure it’s evenly spread out. Top with the remaining ½ cup of cheese—this will create that beautiful bubbly crust we all love. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly with a golden top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let your Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin cool slightly before serving—it’ll be hard to resist diving in right away! Enjoy this delightful dish as a side or light main course; either way, you’re in for something special!

Pro Tips for Making Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

Making the perfect Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture, so here are some pro tips to ensure your dish shines!

Choose a ripe spaghetti squash: Look for a squash that is firm and free of blemishes. A fresh squash will have a sweeter taste and better texture, making your au gratin even more delicious.
Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the squash until tender allows it to develop a deeper flavor. This step also ensures that the strands are fluffy and easy to mix with the other ingredients.
Mix in some veggies: Feel free to add in some steamed broccoli or spinach along with the sautéed onions and garlic. This extra boost of greens not only enhances nutritional value but also adds vibrant color to your dish.
Experiment with cheeses: If you want to mix things up, try using different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda in combination with cheddar. Blending cheeses can create a unique taste profile that elevates your au gratin.
Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve while maintaining its creamy texture.

How to Serve Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

This scrumptious dish can be presented in various delightful ways! Whether you’re serving it as a comforting side or a light main course, consider these suggestions for an appealing presentation.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the flavors without overpowering them.

Side Dishes

Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the au gratin beautifully.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts add both color and nutrition, creating a well-rounded plate.
Quinoa pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs offers a lovely nutty flavor and pairs well with the cheesy squash.
Garlic bread: For those cozy nights, serve with warm garlic bread for dipping into any leftover creamy goodness from your au gratin!

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll be ready to impress at your next meal! Enjoy every bite of this Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it keeps well and can easily be incorporated into a busy schedule.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

Cool the dish completely before freezing.
Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use different cheeses in Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties such as mozzarella, gouda, or even dairy-free cheese options for a unique twist while keeping it healthy.

What can I serve with Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

How do I store leftover Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Can I make Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish a day in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you love making this Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to enjoy comfort food without compromising on health. Whether it’s for a simple weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!

Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin

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Author: Amelia
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin—a delightful dish that combines tender roasted spaghetti squash with sautéed onions and garlic, all enveloped in a creamy layer of Greek yogurt and melted sharp cheddar. This guilt-free recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a nutritious and satisfying option that everyone will love. Naturally low-carb and gluten-free, this dish proves you can enjoy rich, cheesy comfort food while staying aligned with your health goals.

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium spaghetti squash
1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic (minced)
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: ¼ tsp paprika or dried thyme

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise, scoop out seeds, brush with olive oil, and roast cut-side down for 35–40 minutes until tender.
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions in olive oil until softened (about 5 minutes), then add minced garlic for an additional minute.
Once the squash has cooled slightly, shred it into noodle-like strands with a fork.
In a bowl, combine shredded squash with sautéed onions and garlic, Greek yogurt, 1 cup of cheese, salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish; top with remaining cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.