If you’re on the lookout for a warm and nourishing meal that checks off all the boxes for flavor, comfort, and healthiness, look no further than this Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Garlic Sage Butter. This dish serves as the perfect canvas featuring creamy cheeses, aromatic herbs, and a delightful hint of roasted garlic that will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also provides a beautiful, presentable option for any dinner table, making it great for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

The beauty of spaghetti squash lies in its versatility. With a unique texture that easily mimics pasta, it becomes a wholesome alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. Each bite of this dish is a wonderful balance of cheesy goodness and fresh herbs, meaning you can enjoy indulgence without the guilt. Most importantly, this recipe is entirely customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of provolone, fontina, and parmesan creates a rich, melty topping that enhances the dish.
Health Benefits: Packed with vegetables, this dish supports a balanced diet while being satisfying and comforting.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or add-ins based on your preferences!
Great Presentation: Serve directly from the squash halves for a beautiful and impressive dish at any gathering.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your workspace for easy cooking. First, gather all your ingredients and kitchen tools. You’ll need a sharp knife, a cutting board, a mixing bowl, measuring cups, and a baking dish. Having everything within reach will make the entire experience smoother and more enjoyable. You may also want to have a spoon handy to scoop out the spaghetti squash seeds.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the stuffed squash. Preparing the squash itself is straightforward; just halve the squashes and remove the seeds with ease. Be careful while handling the knife and always cut on a stable surface.

Ingredients

2 medium spaghetti squash, halved and seeded
1 cup shredded provolone cheese
6 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 head garlic
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage (divided)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
1¼ cups whole milk or heavy cream
1 cup shredded fontina cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella or gouda
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons salted butter, room temp
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the temperature is ideal for baking. Next, prepare your spaghetti squash by cutting them in half and removing the seeds. Make sure to scoop out enough to give you plenty of room to stuff later. Set aside for a moment while you work on the filling.

Step 2: Create the Cheesy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and dry spinach, fresh thyme, chopped sage (reserve one tablespoon for later), the fontina cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Pour in the whole milk or heavy cream and stir until everything is evenly incorporated. Season your mixture with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. The filling should be creamy and flavorful, packed with herbs that perfectly complement the squash.

Step 3: Assemble the Squash

Next, take your halved spaghetti squash and generously sprinkle the insides with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning is crucial as it enhances the overall flavor of your dish. Begin layering by adding half of the provolone cheese into each squash half. Once you’ve done that, carefully spoon the creamy cheese and spinach mixture over the cheese in each half. To finish, sprinkle the remaining provolone and grated parmesan cheese on top, adding an extra layer of richness.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic

Chop off the top of the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it tightly in foil. This will guard the garlic from burning while it roasts, allowing it to become sweet and flavorful. Place the wrapped garlic alongside the prepared squash in your baking dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and transfer it to your preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, then carefully remove the foil from both the squash and the garlic. Continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is beautifully golden brown and the squash is fork-tender.

Step 6: Make the Garlic Sage Butter

Once the squash and garlic are roasted, squeeze the soft roasted garlic cloves into a bowl. To this bowl, add your room-temperature salted butter and the reserved tablespoon of chopped sage. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful garlic sage butter that will elevate your dish. The aroma alone will have you drooling in anticipation!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

After removing the squash from the oven, spread the warm garlic sage butter over the hot squash halves. Using a fork, scrape the squash into strands, mixing it with the cheesy filling. This will create a perfectly textured dish filled with the delightful flavors of spinach and cheese. Serve warm and enjoy this cozy meal!

Variations

Protein: Add some cooked chicken or turkey for added protein.
Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a veggie boost.
Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a dash of nutmeg for warmth.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to truly squeeze out as much water as possible from the thawed spinach to avoid a watery filling.
If you want an extra crispy top layer, you can broil the squash for a minute after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a refreshing side.
Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up any leftover cheesy filling.

Tips

Feel free to roast the squash ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy reheat meal.
Use fresh herbs if available for an even more vibrant flavor!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
Protein: 15 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

FAQs

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bake it on the same day.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Just be sure to blanch it in boiling water briefly, then squeeze out the excess moisture.

Is spaghetti squash low-carb?

Yes, spaghetti squash is often used in low-carb diets as a substitute for pasta.

How can I tell when the squash is done baking?

The squash is done when the skin is easily pierced with a fork and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Garlic Sage Butter is a celebration of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you are enjoying it for a cozy dinner or serving it at a gathering, it is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you personalized your version of this delightful dish! Enjoy the goodness of fresh ingredients and cheese in a wholesome way.