Creamy Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe
A creamy, comforting Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese that offers a healthier twist on the classic comfort food by replacing traditional pasta with roasted spaghetti squash, combined with a rich and cheesy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Squash
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3–4 pounds)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Roast the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven for 40-45 minutes until the flesh is tender and can be shredded easily with a fork.
- Shred the Squash: Once roasted and cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh out of the squash flesh to create spaghetti-like strands. Set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the milk and heat until warm but not boiling. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded spaghetti squash to the cheese sauce and gently stir until the strands are well coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm as a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional mac and cheese.
Notes
- You can use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for added flavor.
- For a smoother sauce, consider adding 1 teaspoon of flour or cornstarch with the butter to create a roux before adding milk.
- Roast the spaghetti squash ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Adjust seasoning with nutmeg or mustard powder if desired for depth.
Keywords: Spaghetti squash mac and cheese, low carb mac and cheese, healthy mac and cheese, gluten free mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese alternative
