Spaghetti Squash with Bechamel Sauce Recipe

This delectable dish of spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce is a satisfying, healthy alternative to traditional pastas. The sweet, nutty flavor of the squash pairs exceptionally well with the delicate, creamy bechamel sauce. This recipe is a brilliant example of how to make comfort food that's also utterly nutritious.

Photos of Spaghetti Squash with Bechamel Sauce Recipe

Spaghetti squash, an essential ingredient in this recipe, might not be a regular resident in your pantry. This unique variety of squash gets its name from its ability to mimic spaghetti strands when cooked. Its mild flavor and slightly crunchy texture make it a favorite substitute for pasta. You can find it in the produce section of the supermarket, usually near other varieties of squash.

Ingredients for Spaghetti Squash with Bechamel Sauce Recipe

Spaghetti squash: An oval winter squash that is named for the spaghetti-like strands its flesh turns into after cooking. It has a mild taste and a firm texture.

Sweet Potato: A root vegetable rich in fiber and vitamins. It adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess to the dish.

Cloves: These aromatic spice buds bring a warm, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Onion: Provides a depth of flavor with its slightly sweet and savory taste.

Bay leaf: A fragrant leaf that infuses the dish with its distinct, mildly floral flavor.

Butter: Adds richness and a velvety texture to the bechamel sauce.

Gluten-free all purpose baking flour: Used as a thickening agent in the sauce. This gluten-free variant makes the recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Milk: The main liquid component of the bechamel sauce, creating a creamy base.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Ground white pepper: Adds a slight heat to balance the richness of the sauce.

One reader, Amy Coles says:

This spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the tender squash and creamy sauce is simply divine. It's a healthier alternative to traditional pasta dishes, and the flavors are so satisfying. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a winner!

Amy Coles

Techniques Required for Making Spaghetti Squash With Bechamel Sauce

How to bake spaghetti squash: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place the spaghetti squash in a baking dish and bake for about 1 hour until tender. Remove from the oven and let it cool. Cut in half, remove the seeds, and shred the squash meat using a fork.

How to make bechamel sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour to form a thick paste. Gradually pour in warm milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add the onion and bay leaf, cover, and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes. Remove the onion and bay leaf, then season the sauce with salt and pepper.

How to assemble and bake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease a baking dish. Combine the shredded spaghetti squash and sweet potato, then mix in the prepared bechamel sauce. Transfer the mixture into the baking dish and bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the top is golden brown.

How To Make Spaghetti Squash with Bechamel Sauce

Here’s a vegetarian spaghetti squash dish that a crowd will enjoy. Squash and sweet potatoes are combined with bechamel sauce and baked for a golden finish.

Preparation: 50 minutes

Cooking: 2 hours 40 minutes

Total: 3 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1spaghetti squash
1sweet potato,peeled and grated
3whole cloves
1small onion,peeled
1bay leaf
¼cupbutter
½cupgluten-free all purpose baking flour
2cupswarm milk
salt,to taste
ground white pepper,to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place spaghetti squash in a baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour until squash is tender when pricked with a fork. Remove from oven and set aside until almost completely cooled. Cut in half and remove seeds using a spoon.
Shred squash meat using a fork and discard the peel.
Combine shredded spaghetti squash and sweet potato in a bowl. Press cloves into peeled onion.
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until a pinch of flour sprinkled into the butter will just begin to bubble.
Whisk in flour to form a thick paste just like the consistency of cake frosting. Pour in warm milk, 2 tablespoons at a time, and keep stirring until sauce thickens.
Add onion and bay leaf to milk mixture, cover, and simmer over low heat, stirring from time to time to prevent burning for 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a baking dish.
Remove onion and bay leaf from bechamel sauce and and season sauce with salt and pepper. Pour sauce over spaghetti squash-sweet potato mixture and mix well.
Transfer spaghetti squash mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes until top is golden brown.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 300.06kcal
Fat: 16.26g
Saturated Fat: 9.73g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.04g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.99g
Carbohydrates: 33.13g
Fiber: 3.29g
Sugar: 11.10g
Protein: 6.94g
Cholesterol: 42.70mg
Sodium: 704.79mg
Calcium: 182.96mg
Potassium: 427.39mg
Iron: 0.85mg
Vitamin A: 390.12µg
Vitamin C: 4.27mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Spaghetti Squash With Bechamel Sauce

When preparing the spaghetti squash, ensure to let it cool down completely before shredding the meat with a fork. This not only makes the process easier, but also prevents you from burning your fingers. Additionally, when making the bechamel sauce, it's crucial to add the warm milk gradually while constantly stirring to prevent lumps from forming. This will result in a smooth and creamy sauce that perfectly complements the spaghetti squash and sweet potato.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the spaghetti squash and sweet potato in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Use pre-made sauce: If you're short on time, consider using a store-bought bechamel sauce instead of making it from scratch.

Multitask: While the squash is baking, you can start preparing the bechamel sauce to save time.

Invest in a good peeler: A high-quality peeler can make the process of peeling and preparing the sweet potato much quicker and easier.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion of the dish and store the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal later in the week.

Substitute Ingredients For Spaghetti Squash with Bechamel Sauce Recipe

spaghetti squash - Substitute with zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles can be used as a low-carb alternative to spaghetti squash and will work well with the bechamel sauce.
sweet potato - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to sweet potato and will complement the bechamel sauce nicely.
cloves - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm and slightly sweet flavor similar to cloves in the bechamel sauce.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can add a subtle earthy and herby flavor to the bechamel sauce, similar to the bay leaf.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter in the bechamel sauce, adding a rich and smooth texture.
gluten-free all purpose baking flour - Substitute with coconut flour: Coconut flour is a gluten-free alternative that can be used to thicken the bechamel sauce, providing a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
warm milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to warm milk in the bechamel sauce, providing a creamy texture.

Presentation Tips for Spaghetti Squash With Bechamel Sauce

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add vibrant colors and delicate textures.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle the bechamel sauce in a decorative pattern on the plate using a squeeze bottle, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Utilize fine dining plating techniques: Employ the use of tweezers to delicately place the shredded spaghetti squash and sweet potato mixture on the plate, ensuring precision and attention to detail.
Garnish with precision: Add a final touch by garnishing the dish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or truffle shavings for a sophisticated flavor and aroma.
Focus on symmetry and balance: Arrange the components of the dish thoughtfully, ensuring a harmonious balance of colors, shapes, and textures on the plate.
Highlight the golden brown crust: Showcase the golden brown top of the dish by presenting it in a manner that allows the crust to be prominently displayed, enticing the senses with its inviting appearance.
Use elegant serving ware: Select fine dining plates or artisanal ceramic dishes to elevate the overall presentation, adding a touch of refinement to the dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Oven: An appliance used for baking and roasting food by surrounding it with dry heat.
Baking dish: A dish used for baking in the oven, typically made of glass or ceramic.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for making sauces and heating liquids.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.
Spoon: A utensil consisting of a small shallow bowl attached to a handle, used for stirring and serving.
Fork: A utensil with two or more prongs, used for picking up and eating food.
Baking dish: A dish used for baking in the oven, typically made of glass or ceramic.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients together.
Baking dish: A dish used for baking in the oven, typically made of glass or ceramic.
Baking dish: A dish used for baking in the oven, typically made of glass or ceramic.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Spaghetti Squash With Bechamel Sauce

To store leftover spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a covered dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, transfer it to a baking dish and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk or water to adjust the consistency of the sauce if it has thickened during freezing.
Note: The texture of the spaghetti squash may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming softer and more watery. However, the flavor should remain delicious, and the dish will still be enjoyable.

How To Reheat Leftover Spaghetti Squash With Bechamel Sauce

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the sauce from drying out.
For a quicker option, use your microwave. Transfer the leftover spaghetti squash and bechamel sauce to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the dish is heated evenly. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
If you prefer a crispy top, reheat the spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Add the leftovers and stir occasionally until heated through. This method allows you to control the texture and add a golden, crispy layer to the top of the dish.
For a more flavorful twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs over the top of the reheated spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce. Place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce. Place the leftovers in the air fryer basket and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method can help to restore some of the original texture and crispiness to the dish.

Random Fact About Spaghetti Squash With Bechamel Sauce

Spaghetti squash is a great source of nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. It's a healthy alternative to traditional pasta and can be a great addition to a balanced diet.

Is Making Spaghetti Squash With Bechamel Sauce Cost-Effective?

This spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as spaghetti squash and sweet potato, are affordable and readily available. The addition of a homemade bechamel sauce elevates the dish without significantly increasing the cost. The use of simple, pantry-staple ingredients keeps the overall cost low. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $12-15.

Is This Spaghetti Squash Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, spaghetti squash is a nutritious, low-calorie vegetable that provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The addition of sweet potato further enhances the dish's nutritional value, offering beta-carotene, potassium, and antioxidants. However, the bechamel sauce, made with butter, flour, and milk, is high in saturated fat and calories. While the sauce adds richness and flavor, it can make the dish less healthy overall.

To make this recipe healthier, consider these suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used in the bechamel sauce or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or vegetable broth
Use a lower-fat milk option, such as skim or 1% milk, to decrease the saturated fat content
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Experiment with alternative sauces, like a tomato-based sauce or a lighter, vegetable-based broth, to reduce the overall calorie and fat content while still providing flavor
Use whole grain flour or a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or chickpea flour, to boost the nutritional value of the bechamel sauce
Serve the dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients

Editor's Thoughts on This Spaghetti Squash Recipe

The combination of spaghetti squash and sweet potato in this recipe creates a delightful and flavorful dish. The bechamel sauce adds a creamy and rich element that complements the natural sweetness of the vegetables. The use of cloves and bay leaf infuses the dish with a subtle, aromatic complexity. However, the addition of specific measurements for the spices and seasoning would enhance the precision of the recipe. Overall, this dish offers a unique and satisfying twist on traditional spaghetti squash preparations.

Enhance Your Spaghetti Squash with Bechamel Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Juicy and flavorful chicken marinated in a zesty lemon herb sauce and grilled to perfection.

Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and rich risotto infused with the sweet flavor of caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crisp Brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for the perfect balance of flavors.

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Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Spaghetti Squash With Bechamel Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful and refreshing caprese skewers are a delightful way to start any gathering. With juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, they're a light and flavorful option for appetizer hour.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. Each bite is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why trust this Spaghetti Squash with Bechamel Sauce Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti squash, incorporating the wholesome goodness of spaghetti squash and sweet potato for a nutritious and flavorful dish. The rich and creamy bechamel sauce is made from scratch, ensuring a homemade touch that elevates the overall taste and quality. With attention to detail and carefully selected ingredients such as cloves and bay leaf, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience that's both comforting and satisfying. Trust in the expertise and creativity behind this recipe to bring a touch of culinary magic to your table.

Have you tried this Spaghetti Squash with Bechamel Sauce Recipe? Join our Recipe Sharing forum to discuss your experience with this dish and share your own twist on the recipe.

FAQ:

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is cooked?

You'll know the spaghetti squash is cooked when it is tender and easily pierced with a fork. It should have a slightly softened texture, but still hold its shape.

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can definitely use regular all-purpose flour if you don't need the dish to be gluten-free. The bechamel sauce will still turn out delicious.

Can I prepare the spaghetti squash and bechamel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti squash and bechamel sauce ahead of time. Simply store the cooked spaghetti squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator and the bechamel sauce can be refrigerated as well. When you're ready to serve, reheat the sauce and mix it with the spaghetti squash before baking.

Can I substitute the sweet potato with another vegetable?

Absolutely! You can substitute the sweet potato with butternut squash, carrots, or even pumpkin for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze the leftover spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover spaghetti squash with bechamel sauce. Store it in an airtight container and it should keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.