Description
This Creamy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin recipe is a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional potato gratin. Roasted spaghetti squash is combined with a rich sour cream and cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden on top. It’s a comforting yet healthy side dish perfect for pairing with roast chicken or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2.5 to 3 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast Squash: Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35–40 minutes, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Scrape Squash Strands: Use a fork to scrape the spaghetti squash strands into a large mixing bowl.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the finely chopped onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Stir in the sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, half of the shredded Gruyère cheese, ground nutmeg, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to combine.
- Combine Squash and Sauce: Fold the roasted spaghetti squash strands into the cheese sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8-inch (or similar) baking dish. Top with the remaining Gruyère cheese and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot for a comforting, cheesy side dish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- You can prepare this dish a day in advance and bake just before serving.
- This gratin pairs wonderfully with roast chicken or a crisp green salad.