Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

Did you know that spaghetti squash contains only about 42 calories per cup, making it a popular choice for those seeking low-carb alternatives? When you combine it with cheesy broccoli, you create a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also aligns with healthier eating habits. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of spaghetti squash but also offers a creamy texture that might surprise you. Curious about how to prepare this dish and its nutritional benefits? Let’s explore further.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash for several reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare, taking just 10 minutes of your time.

With easy ingredients like spaghetti squash, broccoli, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, you won’t struggle to find what you need. The cooking process is simple, involving roasting the squash, steaming the broccoli, and baking the casserole. This dish is a great option for those seeking a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.

This dish is versatile, serving well as a side or a main course. Plus, it’s low maintenance; you can eat directly from the squash shell, minimizing cleanup.

Not only is it convenient, but it’s packed with nutritional benefits, making it a delicious and healthy choice for any meal.

History

While the specific history of cheesy broccoli spaghetti squash isn’t well-documented, understanding its components sheds light on how this dish likely evolved.

Broccoli, hailing from Italy, and spaghetti squash, native to North America, both contribute to its unique flavor. Cheddar cheese, with roots in England, adds a creamy texture that enhances the dish. The combination of these ingredients likely emerged in the late 20th century, influenced by American dietary trends, such as low-carb diets and the rise of vegetarianism. This dish can also be considered a protein-rich main course that supports various dietary needs.

Food blogs and social media helped popularize the recipe, showcasing its visual appeal and healthy benefits. Over time, variations adapted to different dietary needs, making this dish a versatile favorite for family gatherings and health-conscious meals.

Recipe

Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the unique texture of spaghetti squash with tender broccoli and a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The dish is a great source of protein and calcium, making it a wholesome option for any meal.

The roasted squash serves as a beautiful vessel for the cheesy filling, making it not only tasty but also visually appealing when served. This dish isn’t only a great way to use spaghetti squash but also an opportunity to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

The combination of cheese and broccoli creates a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness of the squash. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 1 spaghetti squash
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or a blend)
• Additional cheese and breadcrumbs (for topping)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Rub the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Once done, let the squash cool slightly before shredding the strands with a fork.
3. While the squash is roasting, prepare the broccoli. You can either steam the broccoli florets in the microwave with a little water until bright green and tender or sauté them in a pan with olive oil, minced garlic, and shallots until slightly softened.

Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and water, stirring continuously to thicken the sauce.

Once thickened, add the shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded spaghetti squash, cooked broccoli, and cheese sauce until everything is well mixed. Fill the reserved squash shells with the mixture, then top with additional cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
2. Place the filled squash shells under the broiler for a few minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Serve the cheesy broccoli spaghetti squash immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Extra Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cooked protein like chicken or sausage to the mixture before filling the squash shells.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add spices such as paprika or garlic powder to the cheese sauce for a more robust flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a splash of cream to the cheese sauce. Enjoy your cooking!

Final Thoughts

As you savor the delightful flavors of Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash, you’ll find it’s not just a meal but an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction.

This dish isn’t only tasty but also packed with nutrients. With 252 calories per serving and a good mix of protein, fats, and fiber, it can fit into a balanced diet. Plus, the high levels of calcium and vitamin A support your health. Additionally, it features a significant amount of vitamin K which is essential for bone health and proper blood clotting.

You can easily customize it by adding chicken or experimenting with different cheeses. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s versatile and easy to prepare.

Don’t forget, leftovers can be stored for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Enjoy!

FAQ

What questions do you have about making Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash?

You might wonder how to prepare the spaghetti squash. Start by cutting it in half, removing the seeds, and applying oil. You can cook it by microwaving for 9-11 minutes or baking at 350-400°F for 35-45 minutes. Cooking spaghetti squash in the microwave is a quick method that ensures tenderness in a short amount of time.

Next, for the broccoli, use 2-3 cups of florets. Microwave or sauté it until tender.

Combine the squash flesh with broccoli, cheese, and seasonings before filling the shells. Broil until the cheese is bubbly.

You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days, and it’s great as a main dish or side.

Feel free to add proteins or toppings for extra flavor!

Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

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Ingredients

  

• Ingredients
• 1 spaghetti squash
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups shredded cheese e.g., cheddar or a blend
• Additional cheese and breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

 

• Cooking Instructions
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Rub the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Once done, let the squash cool slightly before shredding the strands with a fork.
• While the squash is roasting, prepare the broccoli. You can either steam the broccoli florets in the microwave with a little water until bright green and tender or sauté them in a pan with olive oil, minced garlic, and shallots until slightly softened.
• Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
• In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and water, stirring continuously to thicken the sauce.
• Once thickened, add the shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
• In a large bowl, combine the shredded spaghetti squash, cooked broccoli, and cheese sauce until everything is well mixed. Fill the reserved squash shells with the mixture, then top with additional cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
• Place the filled squash shells under the broiler for a few minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Serve the cheesy broccoli spaghetti squash immediately for the best flavor and texture.