Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe
A comforting and cheesy spaghetti squash casserole that combines the natural texture of spaghetti squash with creamy sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, and fragrant herbs. This oven-baked dish is a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional pasta casseroles, perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Squash
- 1 (3 pounds) raw spaghetti squash – or 2 ½ cups cooked spaghetti squash (450 grams)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic – minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon other kosher salt)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese – shredded
Cooking Aids
- Olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly spray a 1.5-quart baking dish with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Microwave the Squash: Pierce the spaghetti squash several times with a sharp knife. Microwave it on high for 6 minutes, then turn it over and microwave for an additional 6 minutes until the squash is soft to the touch. Let it stand for 5 minutes to complete cooking.
- Prepare the Squash Flesh: Carefully cut the cooled spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out and discard the seeds and pulp. Use a fork to rake back and forth to separate strands of the squash flesh into a large bowl.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Seasonings: In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg until smooth. Add sour cream, kosher salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and minced garlic. Whisk the mixture until fully combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked spaghetti squash strands and shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently to mix everything well.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the casserole is browned and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares or scoop onto plates and enjoy your cheesy spaghetti squash casserole.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the dish.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese and a flax or chia egg substitute.
- Cooking time for the squash can be done in the oven if you prefer roasting instead of microwaving (about 40 minutes at 400°F).
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- This dish is vegetarian but not vegan due to egg and dairy ingredients.
