Description
A healthier, lighter take on the classic gratin, this Healthy Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin uses tender spaghetti squash instead of pasta, baked with a creamy, cheesy sauce, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan crust. It’s a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian side dish or light main course.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2-3 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups milk (low-fat or almond milk recommended)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Let cool slightly, then use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands. Set aside.
- While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, Gruyere cheese, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the spaghetti squash strands to the cheese sauce and toss to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the spaghetti squash mixture.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use whole milk or a blend of cheeses like cheddar or Swiss.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Add cooked vegetables like broccoli florets or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American