Name: Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Ingredients: 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2–3 pounds); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting the squash); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cooked ground turkey or sausage (optional); 1 egg; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Spaghetti Squash Casserole is the perfect dish for anyone seeking a comforting, yet lighter alternative to traditional pasta casseroles. With tender strands of spaghetti squash mingling with rich, savory ingredients like cheese, herbs, and a delightful medley of seasonings, it delivers all the heartiness of a casserole, but with a fresh twist. The golden, baked top and creamy interior come together in a way that makes this dish feel indulgent, while still being packed with healthy ingredients.

If you love comfort food but want something a bit more health-conscious or low-carb, this casserole is an absolute winner. It’s the ideal dish for family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, or meal prep. And the best part? It’s just as satisfying as a traditional pasta bake, with the added bonus of being vegetable-packed and gluten-free.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Squash Casserole

This casserole is a great way to enjoy the flavors of a cheesy pasta bake without the heavy carbs. It’s a fantastic option for anyone following keto or gluten-free diets, while still offering that satisfying cheesy goodness everyone loves. The spaghetti squash acts as a perfect stand-in for noodles, providing a light, yet filling base for the savory ingredients. It’s also a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste, adding extra vegetables, protein, or even spices to make it your own! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making it for meal prep, this casserole will always impress.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making Spaghetti Squash Casserole is simple, but having the right tools will help you get the best results with minimal effort. Here are the essential tools you’ll need to make this dish:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking Dish – A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe. It will allow the casserole to bake evenly, with room for all the delicious ingredients to come together.
Sharp Knife – For cutting the spaghetti squash in half. A sharp knife is important to ensure you can slice through the tough exterior of the squash without much effort.
Spoon – To scoop out the seeds from the spaghetti squash and ensure it’s ready to bake.
Fork – You’ll need a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands from the squash once it’s cooked.
Large Mixing Bowl – This is where you’ll combine the ingredients like the cooked squash, cheese, and seasonings before layering them in the casserole.
Aluminum Foil – If you’re baking the spaghetti squash first, foil will help lock in moisture and ensure it cooks thoroughly.

Each of these tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable, helping you create a perfect casserole!

Preparation Tips

Choosing a Good Spaghetti Squash: Look for squash that feels firm and heavy for its size. The skin should be a rich, golden yellow, and free from cracks or soft spots.
Baking the Squash: When baking, make sure to cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds before placing it on a baking sheet. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil and season it with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Draining the Squash: After scraping out the spaghetti strands, give them a quick squeeze with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

With these tools and tips, you’ll have everything you need to prep and assemble your Spaghetti Squash Casserole with ease!

Ingredients for Spaghetti Squash Casserole

The ingredients for this Spaghetti Squash Casserole are simple yet flavorful, combining fresh vegetables, savory cheese, and aromatic herbs. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2–3 pounds)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting the squash)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked ground turkey or sausage (optional, for added protein)
1 egg (helps bind the casserole together)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

These ingredients combine to create a deliciously cheesy, flavorful casserole with the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and spices. If you want to make it more customizable, you can always adjust the herbs and add-ins to your preference, making it a truly unique dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Roast for about 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily shredded with a fork. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Scrape the Squash Strands

Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash, creating long strands that resemble spaghetti. Transfer the strands to a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and gently squeeze to remove excess moisture. This will prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. If you’re adding ground meat, such as turkey or sausage, add it now and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Mix the Casserole Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded spaghetti squash, sautéed onions and garlic (and cooked meat, if using), ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese for a bubbly, golden crust.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through. If you want an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Notes

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add extra veggies to your casserole. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms are great options to boost the nutrition and add more flavor.
Cheese Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. A combination of different cheeses like cheddar or gouda can also be used to switch up the flavor.
Make It Vegetarian: Skip the ground meat to make this casserole fully vegetarian. You can add some extra vegetables or even tofu crumbles for a plant-based alternative.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Not Removing Excess Moisture: After scraping the spaghetti squash, it’s important to remove any extra moisture. If left too wet, the casserole can become soggy.
Overcooking the Squash: Be careful not to overcook the squash. It should be tender but still firm enough to scrape into strands. Overcooked squash may become too mushy and watery.
Underseasoning: Spaghetti squash can be fairly mild in flavor, so don’t be afraid to add enough salt, pepper, and herbs. Taste the mixture before baking to make sure the seasoning is on point.
Not Preheating the Oven: Preheating the oven ensures that the casserole bakes evenly and that the cheese melts perfectly into a golden crust.
Skipping the Broil Step (optional): If you prefer a crispy, golden top, don’t skip broiling the casserole for a few minutes at the end. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to a flawless Spaghetti Squash Casserole!

What to Serve With Spaghetti Squash Casserole?

This Spaghetti Squash Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, balancing its cheesy richness with lighter or refreshing flavors. Here are eight delicious recommendations:

1. Garlic Bread

A classic accompaniment to any casserole, the crunch and buttery garlic flavor complement the softness of the squash and cheese.

2. Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will provide a crisp contrast to the creamy casserole.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini bring a savory, caramelized flavor that works beautifully with the flavors in the casserole.

4. Steamed Asparagus

The natural bitterness of asparagus makes it an excellent side dish to balance the richness of the casserole.

5. Cauliflower Rice

If you’re looking for a low-carb or keto-friendly option, cauliflower rice is a great way to add volume without too many carbs.

6. Grilled Chicken

For a protein boost, serve this casserole alongside some juicy grilled chicken breast, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon.

7. Balsamic Glazed Mushrooms

Mushrooms, sautéed and drizzled with balsamic glaze, are a delicious earthy side that pairs well with the savory flavors of the casserole.

8. Side of Fresh Fruit

For a sweet and refreshing touch, a fruit salad made with berries, citrus, and melon can offer a lovely contrast to the rich dish.

These sides not only enhance the meal but also provide great texture and flavor variety to your plate!

Storage Instructions (and Reheating)

Storing Leftovers:

In the Refrigerator: Store any leftover Spaghetti Squash Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Be sure to let the casserole cool completely before sealing it in the container to avoid condensation.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of the casserole. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will last up to 2–3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Instructions:

In the Oven: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. For an extra crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
In the Microwave: For a quicker reheating option, microwave individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until hot. Stir halfway through for even heating.

Be sure to store leftovers properly to maintain the dish’s flavor and texture!

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value for one serving of Spaghetti Squash Casserole (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 280-300 kcal
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 500mg

These values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use (such as the type of cheese or meat) and portion sizes, but this gives a good idea of the casserole’s nutritional content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of squash?

Yes! If you can’t find spaghetti squash, you can use other squash varieties like butternut or acorn squash. However, they won’t have the same spaghetti-like texture.

2. Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! This Spaghetti Squash Casserole is naturally gluten-free since it uses spaghetti squash instead of pasta.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Simply cover it and bake the next day when you’re ready to eat.

4. How do I make this casserole dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives. There are many great plant-based cheeses available, such as vegan mozzarella and ricotta, that will work well in this casserole.

5. Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking or after it has been cooked. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

6. Can I add meat to this dish?

Definitely! Ground turkey, sausage, or even chicken work great in this casserole. You can cook the meat separately and mix it into the casserole before baking.

7. How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will last about 3–4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. If you freeze it, it can last up to 2–3 months.

8. Can I use other herbs besides oregano and basil?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. These herbs will complement the flavors and add a personal touch to the casserole.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food without the heaviness of traditional pasta casseroles. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a healthier, low-carb alternative, while still enjoying a cheesy, savory meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this casserole can be made ahead of time, frozen for later, and easily adapted to suit your dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite!