Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

Get your veggie fix with this crave-worthy Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash recipe! If you’re looking for a delicious way to sneak in those greens, you’ve come to the right place. This dish is not only satisfying and creamy but also perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It brings together the comforting flavors of cheesy goodness with the nutrition of fresh broccoli, making it a dish you’ll want to share with everyone you know.

I love how this recipe strikes the perfect balance between health and indulgence. Plus, it’s simple enough for a quick dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash, it might just become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy cheese and tender broccoli are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and reheat for busy days—perfect for meal prepping!
• Flavorful Comfort Food: Each bite is bursting with cheesy goodness that will warm your heart and soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the Base

• 3 lb spaghetti squash (one medium squash)
• ½ tsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
• salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Filling

• 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli
• 2-3 cloves garlic
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 TBSP cream cheese (optional but delish!)
• ¼ tsp garlic powder

For Topping

• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup freshly grated cheddar cheese (medium or sharp) plus extra for topping

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
• Swap the Cheese: Try using different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
• Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick if you love a little heat.
• Protein Boost: Stir in some cooked chicken or chickpeas to make it even heartier.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Squash

First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roasting it brings out its natural sweetness while making it tender enough to scrape into those lovely spaghetti-like strands.

Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli

While the squash is roasting, let’s bring some life to our broccoli! Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil, and toss in the chopped broccoli along with minced garlic. Sauté until bright green and slightly tender—this step enhances their flavor and makes them deliciously vibrant.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, combine heavy cream, cream cheese (if using), garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined. This cheesy mixture is what makes our dish rich and comforting!

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Once your spaghetti squash is roasted (about 30-40 minutes), remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Scrape out those beautiful strands using a fork into a large mixing bowl. Add in your sautéed broccoli mixture along with the cheesy goodness we just prepared. Gently stir until everything is combined—this is where all those flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 5: Bake Again

Transfer your mix back into the empty spaghetti squash halves or place it in a baking dish if preferred. Top with extra cheddar cheese for that gooey finish! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

And there you have it! A delicious serving of Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash that’s sure to impress family or friends while keeping things healthy at the same time. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few handy tips, you can make your Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash even more scrumptious!

• Choose the right squash: Opt for a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, yellowish skin. This ensures you’re getting a fresh and flavorful base for your dish.
• Pre-cook the broccoli: Steaming or sautéing the broccoli beforehand brings out its vibrant color and flavor, ensuring it pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Add depth with spices: Including a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes can elevate the dish’s flavor profile, giving it an unexpected twist that your taste buds will love.
• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheese combinations! Try gouda or mozzarella in place of cheddar for a different texture and flavor experience.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the spaghetti squash and sauce in advance, then just combine and bake when you’re ready to serve. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

Presentation is key, even when it comes to comfort food! Here are some ideas to serve your Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed red pepper: A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds a lovely kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment, garlic bread provides a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the spaghetti squash.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the cheesy squash.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add an earthy element that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Quinoa or Couscous: Serving quinoa or couscous on the side can add extra protein and texture while making your meal even heartier.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash is sure to be a hit at any table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy delicious, cheesy goodness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely after cooking.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking!

Freezing

• Cool the dish thoroughly before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Seal tightly, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Alternatively, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash vegan?

Absolutely! To make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Use vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and cheddar cheese.

How do I ensure my Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash is creamy?

For a creamier texture, you can add more heavy cream or cream cheese. Mixing in a little vegetable broth also helps achieve that dreamy consistency without sacrificing flavor.

What can I serve with Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash?

This dish is quite filling on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. It’s also great alongside grilled veggies or a light soup!

Can I use other vegetables in Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even kale. Just make sure they are chopped small enough to cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash! It’s not only a comforting meal but also a fantastic way to sneak more veggies into your day. Enjoy experimenting with it and making it your own! Happy cooking!