Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe
This creamy spinach and mushroom stuffed spaghetti squash is a wholesome flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. The tender spaghetti squash when roasted mimics pasta and becomes the ideal vessel to hold a rich creamy filling of sautéed spinach and mushrooms. With its blend of savory flavors this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Plus it’s a low-carb and gluten-free option making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
1 medium spaghetti squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 medium onion chopped
2 garlic cloves minced
8 oz mushrooms sliced (button or cremini)
4 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan version)
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven and Prepare Squash:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Drizzle the squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast for 40-45 minutes or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
Make the Creamy Filling:
While the squash is roasting heat olive in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic sautéing until softened about 3-4 minutes.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream allowing the mixture to melt together and become creamy. If the filling seems too thick add a little more cream to reach your desired consistency.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt pepper and nutmeg (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes then remove from heat.
Stuff the Squash:
Once the spaghetti squash is roasted and cool enough to handle use a fork to scrape out the strands of squash from each half creating a spaghetti-like texture.
Scoop out a little of the squash strands from the center to create space for the creamy filling but be careful not to tear the skin.
Spoon the creamy spinach and mushroom mixture into each squash half packing it in slightly.
Bake the Stuffed Squash:
Place the stuffed squash halves back on the baking sheet and return them to the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the filling is heated through and slightly golden on top.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Tips:
Make Ahead: You can roast the spaghetti squash in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat just make the filling and stuff the squash then bake until heated through.
Variation: Add some cooked chicken or ground turkey for a higher-protein option.
Dairy-Free Option: Use non-dairy cream cheese and a plant-based cream alternative such as coconut cream or almond milk for a dairy-free version of this dish.
Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of balsamic vinegar to the filling mixture.
Nutrition (per serving assuming 4 servings):
Calories: 300-350 kcal
Protein: 10-12g
Carbohydrates: 20-25g
Fiber: 4-5g
Sugars: 6-8g
Fat: 20-25g
Saturated Fat: 10-12g
Cholesterol: 45-60mg
Sodium: 350-400mg
This is a rough estimate as the nutrition depends on the specific ingredients and portions used.
This creamy spinach and mushroom stuffed spaghetti squash recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. The roasted spaghetti squash provides a light yet satisfying base while the creamy spinach and mushroom filling offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy meal and it can easily be customized with additional herbs or protein if desired. Serve it as a main course or as a side and enjoy this comforting nutritious and flavorful dish!