If you’ve ever wanted a decadent, comforting casserole that rivals any classic gratin but doesn’t weigh you down, the Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe is about to become your new favorite. With golden baked strands of sweet spaghetti squash swirled in a velvety, cheesy sauce, then finished off with the irresistible crunch of a buttery breadcrumb topping, this dish is a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a standout vegetarian main or an unforgettable side, its creamy texture, savory depth, and bubbly finish are downright irresistible. Let’s jump into everything you need to know to master this showstopper!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part? The ingredients are wonderfully simple—each one plays a vital role in creating the gorgeous layers of flavor and dreamy texture that set the Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe apart. From the nuttiness of Gruyère to the whisper of fresh parsley at the end, these staples work culinary magic together.
- Spaghetti squash: Roasts up to tender, naturally sweet strands that mimic pasta and soak in the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil: Helps caramelize the edges of the squash during roasting for maximum flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for both seasoning the squash and balancing out the richness in every layer.
- Unsalted butter: Lends creamy depth to the sauce and keeps the dish irresistibly silky.
- Onion: Builds aromatic sweetness as the foundation of the sauce.
- Garlic: Infuses a gentle, savory aroma that rounds out the cheesy sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce just enough to hug every strand of squash.
- Whole milk and heavy cream: The luscious base for the cheese sauce, making it rich and dreamy without being heavy.
- Dried thyme: Adds subtle, earthy notes that marry perfectly with the cheeses.
- Gruyère cheese: Melts into gooey ribbons, offering nutty complexity and ultimate comfort.
- Parmesan cheese: Delivers sharp, salty punch to both the sauce and the golden topping.
- Breadcrumbs: Create that crave-worthy, crispy layer that’s everyone’s favorite part.
- Melted butter: Makes sure the topping is extra toasty and flavorful.
- Fresh parsley: Provides color and a burst of fresh flavor just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Slice your spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and drizzle the insides with olive oil. Give each half a generous sprinkling of salt and black pepper. Place them cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet—this method lets the squash steam gently in its own moisture while also picking up a little roasty caramelization on the edges. Pop them into the oven and roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the flesh yields easily to a fork. Once they’re done, let them cool just enough to handle before scraping the flesh into gorgeous, pasta-like strands and setting them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
While the squash is roasting, set a saucepan over medium heat and melt your butter until it bubbles gently. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it down until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes—it should smell sweet and inviting. Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute until fragrant. This aromatic base is the backbone of your luscious sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over your onion and garlic, whisking it into the butter for a minute to eliminate any raw taste. Now the magic happens—slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to create a perfectly smooth, thickened sauce. This should take about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper, followed by the Gruyère and half of the Parmesan. The sauce should become glossy, silky, and absolutely mouthwatering in aroma.
Step 4: Combine Squash and Sauce
In a large bowl or right in the saucepan, gently mix the squash strands with the creamy sauce until every golden ribbon is evenly coated. Transfer this mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out for an even layer of creamy goodness. The Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe is already looking irresistible at this point, but just wait for that topping!
Step 5: Prepare the Buttery Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine your breadcrumbs, the melted butter, and the remaining Parmesan. Mix thoroughly until the breadcrumbs are nicely coated and look just a bit glossy. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole, ensuring every bite will get that addictive crispy finish.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Lower your oven heat to 375°F. Slide the casserole dish onto the center rack and bake for 25 minutes. You’re looking for that signature gratin gold: the topping should be deeply golden and the edges bubbling with cheesy creaminess. Once out of the oven, a sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens everything up and makes the dish sing with color. Serve immediately for the absolute best taste and texture!
How to Serve Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish of chopped fresh parsley brings the whole dish to life with vibrant green and a clean, herbal note. You can also add a dusting of extra Parmesan or a light drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish. If you like a little heat, a crack of black pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes never hurts!
Side Dishes
This Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe is wonderful with a crisp salad dressed in lemony vinaigrette or a plate of roasted green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For a heartier spread, serve it next to garlicky sautéed mushrooms, or pair with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re cooking for company, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a restaurant-worthy presentation. For brunch, try scooping the gratin into roasted squash shells for an edible, rustic bowl. You can even fold in sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for unexpected color and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any extra Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe keeps beautifully! Let leftovers cool completely, then cover tightly or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The gratin will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the entire casserole (but hold off on baking and adding the breadcrumb topping). Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and stash in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed for a fuss-free, make-ahead meal.
Reheating
To bring your gratin back to its bubbly, crisp-topped best, reheat in a 350°F oven, uncovered, for about 20 minutes or until heated through and the topping has regained some crunch. Microwaving works in a pinch for individual portions, but use the oven for best texture.
FAQs
Can I make the Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely—simply substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. You’ll enjoy the same creamy, cheesy results without any compromise.
What cheeses can I use if I don’t have Gruyère?
Gruyère is classic for its melty, nutty qualities, but Swiss or Emmental work beautifully too. For a sharper twist, try white cheddar or a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! For a heartier version, stir some cooked shredded chicken, crumbled cooked sausage, or even sautéed mushrooms directly into the squash mixture before baking.
How can I prep the Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe in advance?
You can roast the squash, make the sauce, and even assemble the entire dish a day ahead—just wait to add the breadcrumb topping until right before baking to keep it crispy and fresh.
Do I need to peel spaghetti squash before baking?
Nope! The skin softens during roasting but remains sturdy enough to hold the squash together, making it easy to scoop out all those beautiful strands after cooking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort, flavor, and a touch of veggie magic, this Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe delivers every time. Don’t be surprised if it finds its way onto your table for cozy weeknights and holiday feasts alike—once you’ve had a forkful of those creamy, golden layers, you’ll want to share it with everyone you love.
Print
Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin. A delightful vegetarian side dish that combines the subtle sweetness of spaghetti squash with a luscious cheese sauce, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Prepare the Squash: Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 35–40 minutes until tender. Scrape squash into strands with a fork.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, sauté onion until soft, add garlic, then flour, followed by milk and cream. Stir in thyme, salt, pepper, Gruyère, and half the Parmesan.
- Combine and Bake: Mix the cheese sauce with the spaghetti squash, transfer to a baking dish. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and remaining Parmesan, sprinkle over the top. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Enhance the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg in the sauce.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and baked when needed. Leftovers reheat well in the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
