Baked Spaghetti Squash Alfredo
This Baked Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is a creamy, comforting, and lower-carb alternative to traditional pasta Alfredo. Roasted spaghetti squash is tossed in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a perfect side dish or main course and can be customized with protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
Ingredients:
For the Spaghetti Squash:
1 medium spaghetti squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Alfredo sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
For Baking & Garnish:
½ cup shredded mozzarella (for extra cheesiness, optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions:
1. Roast the Spaghetti Squash:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Brush the inside with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 35-40 minutes, until the flesh is tender and easily scraped into strands with a fork.
5. Let cool slightly, then scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands and set aside.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
1. In a saucepan over medium heat the olive oil.
2. Add minced garlic and saute for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble & Bake:
1. Toss the spaghetti squash strands with the Alfredo sauce.
2. Transfer to a baking dish or back into the squash shells.
3. Sprinkle with mozzarella (if using) and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, until bubbly and slightly golden.
4. Serve:
1.Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
2.Serve as a main dish or alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – Approx. 4 Servings)
Calories: ~300
Protein: ~10g
Carbohydrates: ~12g
Fat: ~24g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~4g
Notes & Variations:
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Dairy-Free: Swap butter for olive oil, use coconut cream, and substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
Protein Boost: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or sauteed shrimp.
Extra Flavor: Mix in sauteed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Assembly & Bake Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes