Ah, spaghetti squash—the vegetable that wants to be pasta but has a personality all its own! I fell head over heels for garlic cheddar spaghetti squash casserole when I was trying to find a mouthwatering dish that wouldn’t weigh me down. It’s like nurturing your inner comfort food lover while also putting a smile on your health-conscious friend’s face.
The first time I made this dish, it was for a potluck dinner, and let me tell you, it stole the show! Everyone was amazed at how the squash mimicked the texture of pasta, but the rich, cheesy goodness was what really left them begging for seconds. Don’t get me started on the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen; it felt like I was right back at my grandma’s house, cooking up something special. Now, I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, so let’s get cooking!
What’s in Garlic Cheddar Spaghetti Squash Casserole?
Spaghetti Squash: The star of the show! This wonderful veggie provides a low-carb alternative to pasta and has a subtly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese and garlic.
Olive Oil: A staple in my kitchen, I love to use extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste and health benefits. It helps in roasting the squash and sautéing the garlic.
Garlic: Oh, garlic, how I adore you! Minced garlic adds that fragrant kick that elevates this dish to another level. Just one whiff can transport me to Italy.
Cheddar Cheese: The gooey, melty charm of cheddar gives this casserole its richness. I prefer sharp cheddar for that extra punch of flavor, but feel free to use mild if that’s more your style.
Cream Cheese: This creamy delight makes the filling unbelievably luscious. It melts wonderfully and brings everything together.
Sour Cream: Adds a tangy twist that complements the cheddar perfectly while making the dish ultra-creamy.
Milk: Just a splash to round out the creamy texture—whole or low-fat, your call!
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning to elevate all the flavors. Always taste as you go!
Paprika: While optional, I love adding a hint of paprika for that subtle smokiness. It really kicks things up a notch!
Green Onions or Chives: A lovely garnish that adds freshness and some color to the finished dish.
Is Garlic Cheddar Spaghetti Squash Casserole Good for You?
You bet it is! This casserole not only gets a big checkmark for flavor but also offers some impressive health benefits:
Spaghetti Squash: It’s low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great choice if you’re looking to lighten up your meals without sacrificing taste.
Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic is loaded with antioxidants. Plus, it just tastes so darn good!
Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese: While these add delicious creaminess, they are also sources of calcium. Just keep an eye on the portions if you’re watching your fat intake, though!
That said, this casserole is a hearty dish that’s rich in cheese and cream, so if you’re on a strict diet, maybe save it for a special occasion or an indulgent weekend!
Ingredients List
– 1 medium spaghetti squash
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– 1/4 cup green onions or chives, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves 4-6.*
How to Make Garlic Cheddar Spaghetti Squash Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), as we want to roast the squash to perfection.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out those pesky seeds. Give the insides a nice drizzle of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet. Let it roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until you can easily shred the flesh with a fork. That’s when the magic happens!
4. While that beautiful squash is in the oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it gets fragrant. Trust me, you’ll want to stand by and savor the smell.
5. In a large bowl, combine the shredded spaghetti squash, that sizzling garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if you’re opting for a hint of smokiness). Mix until it’s all combined and dreamy.
6. Transfer that luscious mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle some additional cheddar cheese on top because, well, why not?
7. Bake in the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is all melted and bubbly—this is where the real excitement happens!
8. Once finished, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or chives for that fresh touch.
A Touch of Elegance
Looking for ways to make this casserole pop? For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños into the mix—my family loves it a little spicy! This dish is not just a side; it shines as a vegetarian main course, especially paired with a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies.
I can’t wait for you to fill your kitchen with the aromas of garlic and cheese, creating memories just like I did the first time I made this casserole. Give it a whirl and let me know how it turns out. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
