Spaghetti squash is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious vegetable that serves as a fantastic alternative to traditional pasta. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of seasonings, but sometimes, simplicity is the key to a perfect dish. This Parmesan Cheese Spaghetti Squash recipe is one of those deceptively simple yet incredibly tasty dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the squash with just a few ingredients.
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese might not seem like much, but its salty tang enhances the nutty sweetness of the squash, while butter and a touch of seasoning bring everything together. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a quick and easy side dish, a low-carb pasta alternative, or a nutritious and satisfying meal component.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make — With minimal prep and just a few basic ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly.
- Simple ingredients — You only need four main ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavor.
- Healthy and nutritious — Spaghetti squash is low in calories and carbs while being packed with fiber and essential vitamins.
- Versatile — Enjoy it as a side dish, mix it with your favorite sauces, or use it as a base for a hearty meal.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Required Equipment
Before you begin, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:
- Baking dish — A large, oven-safe dish to roast the spaghetti squash.
- Sharp knife — For piercing the squash and slicing it after baking.
- Fork — Used to shred the squash into spaghetti-like strands.
- Mixing bowl — To combine the squash with butter and Parmesan.
- Spoon — For scooping out the seeds.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper — Optional, to line the baking dish for easier cleanup.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | US Measurement | Metric Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti squash | 1 medium | 1 medium (approx. 1.4 kg) |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | 50 g |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | ½ stick (¼ cup) | 57 g (60 ml) |
| Salt | To taste | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste | To taste |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures that the spaghetti squash will cook evenly.
2. Prep the Spaghetti Squash
Using a paring knife, poke small cuts all over the squash’s skin. This prevents it from bursting in the oven and allows for more even cooking.
3. Bake the Squash
Place the whole spaghetti squash in a lined baking dish. Bake it for about one hour or until the squash is soft when pierced with a fork.
4. Slice and Remove Seeds
Once the squash is cooked, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds.
5. Shred the Squash
Using a fork, scrape the inner flesh of the squash to create long, spaghetti-like strands. Transfer the shredded squash into a large serving bowl.
6. Add Butter and Cheese
Drizzle the melted butter over the spaghetti squash and toss well. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and continue mixing until evenly coated.
7. Season and Serve
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. You can also add a dash of Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Serve warm as a delicious and healthy side dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Tips for the Best Parmesan Cheese Spaghetti Squash
- Choose the right squash — A medium-sized spaghetti squash (about 3 lbs or 1.4 kg) works best for this recipe.
- Test for doneness — The squash should be tender when pierced with a fork but not mushy.
- Add extra flavor — Try adding minced garlic, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- Make it creamy — For a richer dish, mix in a bit of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese along with the Parmesan.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This simple dish can be customized in many ways:
- Garlic Butter Parmesan Squash — Sauté some minced garlic in butter before mixing it with the spaghetti squash.
- Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Bake — Transfer the prepared squash to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
- Low-Carb Pasta Alternative — Use it as a base for marinara sauce, pesto, or Alfredo sauce.
- Protein Boost — Serve alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Spaghetti squash does not freeze well once mixed with butter and cheese, but plain cooked squash can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Cheese Spaghetti Squash recipe is a great example of how simple ingredients can create an incredibly delicious dish. Whether you’re making it as a quick side or a healthy pasta substitute, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Give this dish a try and enjoy the natural goodness of spaghetti squash with the irresistible flavor of Parmesan cheese and butter. Happy cooking! 🍽️
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