Spaghetti Squash Monterey Recipe
Introduction
Spaghetti Squash Monterey is a comforting and cheesy dish that transforms the humble spaghetti squash into a creamy, flavorful casserole. It’s an easy, satisfying way to enjoy a healthy vegetable with a rich twist of Monterey Jack cheese and smoked paprika.
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- Paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the halves face down in a microwave-safe dish with about 1/4 inch of water. Cover with wax paper and microwave until tender, about 14 to 16 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes, then use a fork to scrape out the squash strands into a medium bowl. Set aside.
- Step 2: While the squash cooks, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and transparent.
- Step 3: Add the cooked onion, sour cream, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of grated Monterey Jack cheese to the bowl with the squash strands. Stir well to combine.
- Step 4: Butter a casserole dish or large pie plate. Scoop the squash mixture into the dish, then sprinkle evenly with the remaining 1 cup of cheese and a dusting of smoked paprika.
- Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic when sautéing the onions or stir in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version with a tangy twist.
- If you don’t have a microwave, you can roast the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 40-50 minutes until tender.
Storage
Store leftover Spaghetti Squash Monterey covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The casserole may firm up as it cools, so add a splash of milk or cream when reheating if you want to restore creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Bake just before serving to ensure the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden.
Is spaghetti squash a good substitute for pasta?
Absolutely. Spaghetti squash naturally separates into strands that resemble spaghetti noodles, making it a popular low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta.
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Spaghetti Squash Monterey Recipe
- Total Time: 46 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Spaghetti Squash Monterey recipe offers a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish made with tender spaghetti squash strands combined with sautéed onions, sour cream, and Monterey Jack cheese, then baked to golden perfection with a smoky paprika finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- Paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the spaghetti squash: Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the halves face down in a microwave-safe dish with about 1/4 inch of water. Cover with wax paper and microwave for 14 to 16 minutes until tender. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Shred the squash: Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the cooked squash, creating spaghetti-like strands. Transfer these strands into a medium bowl and set aside.
- Sauté the onions: While the squash cooks, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and transparent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: To the bowl with the spaghetti squash, add the sautéed onions, sour cream, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of grated Monterey Jack cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Assemble the dish: Butter a casserole dish or large pie plate. Scoop the squash mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top and dust with smoked paprika to taste.
- Bake to finish: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the assembled dish for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned on top.
Notes
- Microwaving the spaghetti squash is a quick alternative to baking it whole in the oven, which can take longer.
- For a richer flavor, use smoked paprika as suggested, but regular paprika works well too.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Ensure the squash is not overcooked in the microwave to avoid mushy strands.
- Butter the baking dish to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 36 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Microwaving and Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: spaghetti squash, Monterey Jack cheese, baked squash casserole, creamy squash dish, smoked paprika, microwave spaghetti squash
