Description
Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese offers a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, blending the creamy richness of classic mac and cheese with the healthy goodness of spaghetti squash. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps your health-conscious side happy. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, each cheesy bite brings back childhood memories while introducing a fresh, nutritious element to your meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Place halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 40 minutes until tender.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour to form a roux; cook until golden brown. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
- Once thickened, add cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Scrape spaghetti squash strands into a large bowl; pour in the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg