Spaghetti Squash in Alfredo Sauce

Spaghetti Squash in Alfredo Sauce

Spaghetti squash is truly amazing. The way the flesh turns into “spaghetti noodles” is a game changer. We eat low carb in my house so pasta is not on the diet. It’s ok because there are SO MANY replacements and none are better than spaghetti squash. Mixed with a velvety Alfredo sauce, you will never miss fettuccini.

Here are a few of my tips for baking the squash:

1. Choose a good squash:

  • Pick a squash that’s firm, without soft spots or blemishes. A squash with a dull skin (not shiny) is usually more mature and will have better texture once cooked.

2. Cut it properly:

  • Slice the squash lengthwise (from stem to tail). This will help the strands come out more easily when you scrape it. If you’re struggling to cut it, you can microwave it for 3-5 minutes to soften it up before cutting.

3. Scoop out the seeds:

  • Use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and stringy bits from the center. This makes it easier to get the spaghetti-like strands later.

4. Season the squash:

  • Drizzle with olive or avocado oil, and sprinkle salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like.

5. Roast with the cut side down:

  • Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps the squash cook evenly and caramelize a bit on the bottom.

6. Bake at the right temperature:

  • Bake at 400°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes. The squash is done when it’s tender and a fork easily pulls out the spaghetti-like strands.

7. Let it cool slightly before scraping:

While the squash is baking, start the alfredo sauce. I love to pair sautéed shrimp with this recipe. I normally add a bit of salt and pepper to shrimp and cook it in butter and garlic for 3-4 minutes. It is so easy and delicious and goes perfectly with this dish.

You can serve the finished dish in a casserole or individual bowls. This is a WINNER!

Low-Carb Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

This is a deliciously creamy, low-carb alternative that satisfies that Alfredo craving without the carbs from regular pasta. Enjoy!
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Alfredo sauce:
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or you can use half-and-half for a lighter version
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese preferably fresh
  • 2-3 garlic cloves minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
  • Drizzle the flesh with avocado oil, and season with salt and pepper.
  • Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Roast for about 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of the squash, or until the strands easily pull apart with a fork.
  • Make the Alfredo Sauce:
  • While the squash is roasting, start on the Alfredo sauce.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  • Season with salt, pepper, cayenne and nutmeg to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more cream or even some chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
  • Assemble the Dish:
  • Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Divide it between plates or put in a casserole dish.
  • Spoon the creamy Alfredo sauce generously over the spaghetti squash.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
  • Serve:
  • Serve immediately and enjoy your low-carb Alfredo-style spaghetti squash!
  • Tips:
  • For added protein: You can top it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
  • Creamy Variations: If you want the sauce even creamier, you could add a bit of cream cheese (around 2 oz) while making the sauce.
Keyword alfredo, Alfredo casserole, creamy alfredo, keto, low-carb,, parmesean, shrimp, skillet dinner, spaghetti squash