Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spinach Spaghetti Squash
Craving something rich, cheesy, and comforting—but without the carbs?
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spinach Spaghetti Squash is the ultimate guilt-free indulgence!
Packed with garlicky, creamy goodness and melty mozzarella, it satisfies all your pasta cravings while keeping things light and nutritious.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Bonus? It’s super easy to make and perfect for meal prep!
For Spaghetti Squash
- Spaghetti Squash – The perfect low-carb alternative to pasta, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Olive Oil – Helps roast the squash to tender perfection.
- Salt and Pepper – Enhances the natural flavors of the squash.
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Minced Garlic – Adds bold, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Avocado Oil or Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the garlic and spinach.
- Fresh Spinach – Brings in a pop of color and nutrients.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and creamy base for the sauce.
- Cream Cheese (Optional) – Adds extra creaminess and a slight tang.
- Parmesan Cheese – The key ingredient for that irresistible cheesy flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – Adjust to taste for perfect seasoning.
For Topping
- Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Extra Parmesan Cheese – Because you can never have too much cheese!
Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spinach Spaghetti Squash
Craving something rich, cheesy, and comforting—but without the carbs? This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spinach Spaghetti Squash is the ultimate guilt-free indulgence!
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Servings: 4
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Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2–3 lbs)
- 2 ½ tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp cream cheese (optional, but recommended for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated or sliced mozzarella (for topping, as desired)
Instructions
Roasting the Spaghetti Squash
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. (Tip: If the squash is too tough to cut, microwave it for 3–5 minutes after piercing it a few times with a knife to soften it.)
- Lightly rub the cut sides with olive oil and place them cut side down on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Roast for about 40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Larger squash may need additional time.
- Once done, let the squash cool slightly before handling.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
Assembling the Dish
- Using a fork, fluff the spaghetti squash strands.
- Pour the creamy garlic parmesan sauce over each squash half, mixing slightly.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese as desired.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- For a golden, crispy topping, broil on high for 1–2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Serve as a main dish or a side.
- For extra protein, add grilled or roasted chicken, shrimp, or any preferred protein.
- Servings: 4 as a side, or 2 as a main dish
- Calories per serving: ~274 kcal (before mozzarella topping)
- How can I make cutting the spaghetti squash easier?
Tip: Microwave the squash for 3-5 minutes before slicing. Pierce it a few times with a knife to vent, then microwave. This softens the skin and makes it easier to cut! - Can I roast the spaghetti squash ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, you can roast the squash up to a few days in advance and store it in the fridge. This saves time on busy nights and makes dinner prep much quicker! - What’s the fastest way to prepare the garlic parmesan sauce?
Tip: While the squash is roasting, sauté the garlic and spinach and make the sauce. Multitasking this way will cut down the total time and help you stay ahead in the kitchen. - How do I avoid the sauce being too thick or too thin?
Advice: Gradually add heavy cream and stir continuously. If the sauce gets too thick, simply add a little vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. - Can I customize this recipe with other ingredients?
Answer: Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. Just stir them in after the sauce is made for a quick and tasty upgrade.
