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Spaghetti Squash Monterey Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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