Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re searching for comfort food with a healthy twist, you’ve absolutely got to try this Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese. It takes the classic creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese and cleverly swaps out pasta for tender strands of roasted spaghetti squash. The result is a lighter, veggie-packed dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. It’s creamy, cheesy, and just the right balance of warmth and zest, making it a perfect cozy dinner that your whole family will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, with ingredients that are easy to find but crucial for achieving that perfect creamy cheese sauce and tender spaghetti squash texture. Each element plays a role—from the savory seasoning enhancing the squash to the sharp cheddar that brings that irresistible gooey melt.

• 2 spaghetti squash (about 2 pounds each): The star veggie that replaces pasta with naturally stringy, fork-tender strands.
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps roast the squash to tender perfection.
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the squash.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a gentle, savory depth to the seasoning.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper: Just enough to give a mild kick without overpowering the dish.
• 2 Tablespoons salted butter: Start your cheese sauce with this for silky smoothness and flavor.
• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce for that classic creamy texture (gluten-free options work great too).
• 1 ½ cups whole milk: Makes the sauce rich and creamy without being too heavy.
• 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese (divided): The magic ingredient that melts into a luscious blanket of cheesy goodness.

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and brush the insides with olive oil. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper to enhance natural sweetness and roast with cut side down in a water-filled baking dish covered with foil. This method steams the squash gently, making it perfectly tender and easy to shred into those iconic strands.

Step 2: Shred the Squash

Once the squash is soft and cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred the flesh right inside the shell. This keeps the squash contained and makes for a neat presentation later. The strands will look so much like spaghetti, you might forget you’re eating a veggie!

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

With the oven lowered to 375 degrees F, melt butter in a pan then whisk in the flour, salt, and garlic powder. Keep stirring until it lightly browns and smells nutty—it’s a quick step that gives your sauce a beautiful base. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Then stir in most of the cheddar until it’s silky smooth and perfectly melty.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Pour the cheese sauce evenly into your spaghetti squash halves and gently fold the sauce into each one. Smooth the tops and sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top. Bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll know your Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese is ready when it’s irresistibly creamy with just the right crusty cheese topping.

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

To elevate your dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness. A little cracked black pepper and a dusting of smoked paprika can add a warm spice hint that makes every bite exciting. Crispy breadcrumbs or toasted pine nuts also add delightful crunch.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, which helps cut through the rich cheese. Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or asparagus, offer extra earthy flavors that complement the creamy squash. For heartier meals, add grilled chicken or seared salmon on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve each half spaghetti squash right on the plate for rustic charm. Or scoop the mac and cheese into ramekins and bake individual portions for a lovely dinner party presentation. You can even mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for an indulgent upgrade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually marry well overnight, making leftovers even tastier. Just be sure to keep it covered tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep that creamy texture intact.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat gently in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through and bubbly—usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but do so in short bursts to avoid drying out the cheesy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives great flavor and meltability, you can experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses to match your taste preferences.

Is spaghetti squash suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, spaghetti squash is naturally gluten-free. If you use a gluten-free flour like tapioca or cornstarch in the cheese sauce, your Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese will be completely gluten-free.

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done roasting?

The squash is ready when it’s soft to the touch and the strands easily separate with a fork. It should give slightly when pressed and look tender inside.

Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk and vegan cheese shreds. Keep in mind the sauce may have a slightly different texture, but will still be delicious.

Can I prepare this recipe without roasting the squash?

Roasting the squash is key to getting that perfect tender texture and natural sweetness. While microwave steaming can be a time-saver, roasting enhances flavor and consistency best.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say the Spaghetti Squash Mac and Cheese is a game changer for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, cheesy dish without the heaviness of pasta. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and so satisfying that you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite dinner!

Print