Okay, picture this: I’m a weeknight, you’re staring blankly into the fridge, and the craving for something comforting. What are some of the best flavorful liqueurs I want to be healthy, right?What is a good garlic spinach spaghetti squash recipe?What is the lighter, brighter, and frankly more interesting cousin of mac and cheese? I think it’s even better! What is a cheesy craving in my house? I’m looking at you, little Timmy! ) tend to gobble it right up. I’ve even managed to sneak in some extra veggies this way. Let’s get cooking – you’ll thank me later!
What is Cheesy Garlic Spinach Spaghetti Squash?
Think of it as a cozy, veggie-packed pasta alternative that will blow your mind. Instead of traditional spaghetti, we use the naturally stringy goodness of spaghetti squash as our base. It’s essentially a baked squash that, when shredded with a fork, turns into strands that resemble pasta. Then, we smother it in a creamy, garlicky cheese sauce bursting with fresh spinach. It’s a complete meal in a single dish and oh-so-satisfying. Honestly, it’s pure comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s called What are some good recipes for spaghetti squash?Because that’s exactly what it is! What are some of the most delicious meals you can cook?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start?cheesy garlic spinach spaghetti squashIs a meal not just food, it’s an experience! The sweetness of the spaghetti squash perfectly complements the savory garlic and the creamy, rich, and creamy. The spinach adds a fresh, earthy note that balances everything beautifully.
What’s the best part about making a cake? I’m a beginner cook, but I can nail this recipe. Is it really hands-off cooking? I always make sure to have spaghetti squash on hand just for busy weeknights.
And let’s talk about the cost. Spaghetti squash is relatively inexpensive, especially when it’s in season. Combine that with everyday ingredients like garlic, spinach, and cheese, and you have a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking. Add some cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or swap out the spinach for kale or other leafy greens. I’ve even added a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick. What I love most about this is that it satisfies that craving for something decadent without all the guilt. Plus, it’s a great way to get your veggies in! It’s a definite winner in my book, especially when compared to similar recipes that take twice as long with half the flavor! You could even say it’s a flavor EXPLOSION!
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Spinach Spaghetti Squash
Quick Overview
Making this What is cheesy garlic spinach spaghetti squash? is way easier than you might think! First, we’ll roast the spaghetti squash until it’s tender. While that’s baking, we’ll whip up a quick and creamy cheese sauce with garlic and spinach. Then, we’ll simply toss the spaghetti squash with the sauce and bake it again until it’s bubbly and golden brown. Trust me, it’s a breeze, and the results are absolutely divine. It’s so simple, you’ll be making this every week!
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti Squash: What are
* 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2-3 pounds)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
What is the recipe for Cheesy Garlic Spinach Sauce?
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely warmth)
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This will also prevent the squash from sticking. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step! I learned this the hard way after scrubbing for what felt like hours. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. I like to use a sturdy spoon for this – it makes the job much easier.
Step 2: Season the Squash
Drizzle the inside of each squash half with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it really brings out the flavor of the squash. I always do this, and it makes a huge difference!
Step 3: Bake the Squash
Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the squash is easily pierced with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the size of your squash, so keep an eye on it. When it’s done, the flesh should be tender and easily shreddable.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic
While the squash is baking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, or it will taste bitter. I always stand right there and watch it to make sure it gets that perfect aroma.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure that the spinach cooks evenly. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot of spinach at first – it will shrink down quite a bit as it cooks.
Step 6: Make the Cheese Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. I always add a little extra Parmesan because I’m a cheese fiend! You might also want to add a splash of milk if the sauce gets too thick.
Step 7: Shred the Squash
Once the spaghetti squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. I find that starting from the edges and working your way towards the center is the easiest way to do this.
Step 8: Combine & Bake Again
Add the shredded spaghetti squash to the skillet with the cheese sauce and toss to combine. Make sure the squash is evenly coated with the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish (I use a 9×13 inch dish) and spread it out in an even layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. I like to broil it for the last minute or two to get a nice crispy top, but watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
Step 9: Serve!
Let the What are some good recipes for spaghetti squash?Can you serve this with Parmesan cheese?
What to Serve It With
This cheesy garlic spinach spaghetti squash is a pretty complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides.
For a light lunch: A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great way to add some extra freshness.
For a heartier dinner: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be a delicious addition.
As a side dish: Serve it alongside your favorite protein for a comforting and satisfying meal.
I often serve this with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up all that delicious cheese sauce. It’s also fantastic with a glass of crisp white wine. Honestly, you can’t go wrong!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Garlic Spinach Spaghetti Squash
Okay, so I’ve made this cheesy garlic spinach spaghetti squash countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way.
Spaghetti Squash Selection: When choosing a spaghetti squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, hard rind. Avoid squash with soft spots or blemishes. I always give it a good knock – if it sounds hollow, it’s a good one!
Baking Time: The baking time for the squash can vary depending on its size and your oven. To check if it’s done, pierce it with a fork. If the fork goes in easily, it’s ready. I always err on the side of overcooking it slightly – it’s better to have slightly softer squash than undercooked squash.
Cheese Sauce Consistency: If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. I learned this after trying it with almond milk, and it actually made it creamier!
Spinach Prep: Make sure to wash the spinach thoroughly before adding it to the skillet. I like to use a salad spinner to remove any excess water.
Garlic: Don’t burn the garlic! Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the flavor of the sauce. Cook it over medium heat for just a minute or two, until fragrant.
Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season the squash and the sauce generously with salt and pepper. Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
Adding Protein: If you want to add protein to this dish, cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage would all be delicious additions. Just add them to the skillet with the spinach and cheese sauce.
Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. I’ve also experimented with using different cheeses, like Gruyere or Fontina, for a unique flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This cheesy garlic spinach spaghetti squash is great for meal prepping because it stores really well.
Refrigerator Storage: Let the squash cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. I usually make a big batch on Sunday and then enjoy it for lunches throughout the week.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the squash. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the squash until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. I like to add a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese before reheating to freshen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to cheesy garlic spinach spaghetti squash recipe! It’s a winner because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies without sacrificing taste. If you’re a fan of comforting and healthy-ish meals, this one’s for you. And if you enjoy this, you might also love my creamy tomato basil spaghetti squash or my pesto chicken spaghetti squash. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe! Happy cooking!
Cheesy Garlic Spinach Spaghetti Squash
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 10 ounces fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove seeds.
- Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until tender.
- While squash is baking, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Once squash is cooked, let it cool slightly. Scrape out the flesh with a fork.
- Mix cooked spaghetti squash, spinach mixture, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Serve immediately.
