Spaghetti Squash Monterey Recipe

Introduction

Spaghetti Squash Monterey is a comforting and cheesy dish that transforms healthy spaghetti squash into a rich, flavorful casserole. This easy recipe combines sautéed onions, sour cream, and Monterey Jack cheese for a creamy, satisfying meal perfect for any night.

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

1. Step 1: Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the halves face down in a microwave-safe dish, add 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 and set aside.
2. Step 2: While the squash cooks, melt the butter in a small skillet and sauté the chopped onion until soft and transparent.
3. Step 3: Add the cooked onion, sour cream, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of grated Monterey Jack cheese to the squash. Mix well, then scoop the mixture into a buttered casserole dish or large pie plate. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, followed by a light dusting of paprika.
4. Step 4: Bake in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme to the sautéed onions.
• Use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika; it will still add a nice color and mild flavor.
• For a lower-fat version, substitute half of the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To maintain the best texture, avoid overheating as the squash can become watery.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I roast the spaghetti squash instead of microwaving it?

Yes, you can roast the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 40-50 minutes until tender. This method adds a slight caramelized flavor.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This recipe contains no meat, making it a great vegetarian-friendly option. Just be sure to use cheese made with vegetarian rennet if preferred.

Spaghetti Squash Monterey Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 140 reviews

Spaghetti Squash Monterey is a comforting, cheesy vegetable casserole featuring tender spaghetti squash strands combined with sautéed onions, creamy sour cream, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, finished with a hint of smoky paprika and baked to perfection.

• Author: Nethan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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 (preferably smoked paprika), to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare and cook the spaghetti squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the squash halves face down in a microwave-safe dish with about 1/4 inch of water. Cover the dish with wax paper and microwave on high for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the squash is tender. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before using a fork to scrape out the strands of squash into a medium bowl. Set aside.
2. Sauté the onions: While the squash is cooking, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and transparent, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix squash filling: Add the sautéed onions, sour cream, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of the grated Monterey Jack cheese to the cooked spaghetti squash strands. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Assemble the casserole: Butter a casserole dish or a large pie plate. Spoon the squash mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of grated Monterey Jack cheese over the top, then dust with smoked paprika according to your preference.
5. Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the assembled spaghetti squash Monterey for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

• The microwave cooking time may vary depending on the size of the spaghetti squash and the power of your microwave.
• Smoked paprika offers a nice smoky flavor but you can substitute with regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• If preferred, you can roast the spaghetti squash in the oven at 400°F for 40-45 minutes as an alternative to microwaving.
• Use freshly grated Monterey Jack cheese for better melting and flavor.
• This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Keywords: spaghetti squash casserole, Monterey Jack cheese, baked vegetable dish, cheesy spaghetti squash, healthy casserole