Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Strands of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash are a delicious and satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the unique texture of spaghetti squash with a creamy, garlicky three-cheese mixture that is both keto-friendly and full of flavor. It’s an ideal side dish for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or even a cozy weeknight meal. With its rich taste and low-carb profile, this dish will impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, creamy sauce that elevates the spaghetti squash.
• Keto-Friendly: Perfect for those on a low-carb diet, this dish offers a hearty serving without compromising your dietary goals.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this delightful recipe in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, turkey, or beef, making it great for various meals.
• Vegetarian Option: Enjoyable as a standalone dish or as part of a vegetarian feast.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly and ensuring an easy clean-up with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for combining creamy ingredients without damaging them, ensuring a smooth mixture.
• Fork: Used to shred the cooked spaghetti squash into strands effortlessly.

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Ingredients

Strands of spaghetti squash are tossed with a garlicky three-cheese mixture for a satisfying keto-friendly side dish.

For the Cheese Mixture

• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 3 ounces whole-milk, low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 3/4 cup)
• 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated (about 1 cup), divided

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 2 medium spaghetti squash (about 5 pounds total)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat it to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper; set aside. Place 2 ounces of cream cheese in a large bowl and let sit at room temperature while the oven heats to soften.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Cut 2 spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides of the squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Arrange the squash cut-side down on the baking sheet. Roast until soft when poked with a fork and browned on the skin, about 40 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling

Shred 3 ounces of mozzarella cheese (about 3/4 cup) and grate 2 ounces of Parmesan cheese (1 cup). Chop until you have 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves; reserve some for garnish. Add mozzarella, 3/4 cup of Parmesan (set aside remaining 1/4 cup), parsley, and garlic powder to cream cheese. Stir well with a rubber spatula to combine.

Step 4: Combine Squash with Cheese Mixture

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Flip each squash half over and use a fork to shred its insides, leaving about 1/2-inch unshredded in each shell. Transfer shredded squash to cream cheese mixture; toss well to combine. Evenly divide filling between each half and sprinkle remaining Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake until cheese melts, about 8 to 10 minutes. Turn on broil setting and broil until browned and bubbly, about 2 to 3 minutes more. Garnish with additional parsley before serving hot.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Serving Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash is simple and allows for creativity. This dish pairs wonderfully with various items, enhancing the flavors and textures of your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad – A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with a light vinaigrette adds freshness to your plate.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with a creamy dressing and croutons complements the cheesy richness of the squash.

As a Main Dish

• Grilled Chicken – Juicy grilled chicken breasts can be served alongside for a protein-packed meal.
• Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice create a hearty vegetarian option.

For an Elegant Touch

• Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to caramelized perfection can enhance the dish’s flavor.
• Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and extra garlic flavor that pairs beautifully.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

To ensure your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cheese and herbs provide superior flavor compared to packaged alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook the Squash – Roast just until tender; overcooking can make it mushy and less enjoyable.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices based on your preferences.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Garnish Generously – Adding fresh parsley not only enhances presentation but also offers a fresh taste contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash is versatile enough to pair with many delicious side dishes. Here are some great options.

1. Sautéed Green Beans – Bright green beans sautéed in olive oil add a crisp and vibrant touch.
2. Quinoa Salad – This nutty salad mixed with veggies provides texture and complements the squash’s flavors beautifully.
3. Zucchini Noodles – Light and refreshing, zoodles tossed in olive oil can be a fantastic low-carb addition.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that balances well with the cheesy dish.
5. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze create a delightful appetizer or side.
6. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs makes for an aromatic side that pairs nicely with spaghetti squash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash, avoiding common pitfalls ensures a successful dish.

• Using unripe squash: Select fully ripened spaghetti squash for better flavor and texture. Check for a firm skin and a dull appearance.
• Overcooking the squash: Roasting too long can make the squash mushy. Aim for about 40 minutes or until fork-tender.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of the cheese and squash.
• Not letting cream cheese soften: Allowing cream cheese to come to room temperature makes it easier to mix with other ingredients, ensuring a smooth filling.
• Underestimating baking time: Ensure you bake long enough for the cheese to melt and bubble, achieving that perfect cheesy crust.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments (1-2 minutes) until warm, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash.

Can I use different cheeses in Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different flavors.

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done cooking?

The squash is done when its skin is browned and blistered, and it’s fork-tender.

Is Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated easily, making it great for meal prep.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives such as cashew cream or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different herbs or spices based on your preference. Try this dish as a side or even as a main course—it’s sure to impress family and friends!