Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

This Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy indulgence and wholesome nutrition. The natural sweetness of roasted spaghetti squash pairs beautifully with the rich and savory filling, inspired by the classic spinach and artichoke dip. With layers of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, each bite is bursting with comforting flavors. Not only is this dish incredibly satisfying, but it’s also a fantastic low-carb, vegetarian option for a cozy meal. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main dish or a flavorful side, this recipe brings the best of fall flavors to your table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 spaghetti squashes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 220 g (7 cups) fresh spinach
  • 400 g (14 oz) canned artichokes, drained and chopped
  • 250 ml (1 cup) full-fat cream cheese
  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 50 ml (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese (or vegetarian hard cheese)
  • 120 g (1 cup) mozzarella, grated
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
  2. Brush the surface of each squash half with 1 tbsp olive oil, season with salt, and place cut side up on a baking sheet. Roast for 40 minutes.
  3. While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for a few seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add spinach and stir until wilted and any excess liquid evaporates.
  5. Add the drained and chopped artichokes and sauté for about a minute.
  6. Stir in the cream cheese, allowing it to melt over low heat while stirring constantly.
  7. Remove from heat and mix in mayonnaise, grated Parmesan (reserving 2 tbsp), and mozzarella.
  8. Evenly distribute the mixture into the roasted squash halves. Sprinkle with the reserved Parmesan.
  9. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is golden brown and bubbly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Kcal: 620 kcal | Servings: 4

The Perfect Balance of Flavor and Nutrition

The beauty of this dish lies in the harmony of flavors and textures. Spaghetti squash has a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy filling. The filling itself is inspired by the classic spinach and artichoke dip, a beloved appetizer known for its cheesy, garlicky goodness. Instead of serving it with chips or bread, this recipe transforms the dip into a satisfying main course by pairing it with the roasted squash.

One of the standout features of this dish is its nutritional value. Spaghetti squash is naturally low in calories and carbohydrates, making it an excellent alternative to traditional pasta dishes. It’s also high in fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Meanwhile, the combination of spinach, artichokes, and cheese adds an impressive amount of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Despite being packed with nutrition, this dish doesn’t compromise on flavor. The melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese add a savory, umami richness, while the artichokes provide a slight tanginess that keeps each bite interesting. The garlic and olive oil enhance the depth of flavor, making the filling taste luxurious and comforting.

Why Spaghetti Squash?

If you’ve never cooked with spaghetti squash before, you’re in for a treat. Unlike other squash varieties, spaghetti squash develops thin, noodle-like strands when cooked, making it a fun and unique vegetable to work with. It has a naturally mild taste that pairs well with a variety of sauces and toppings, much like traditional pasta.

Another reason spaghetti squash is so popular is its ease of preparation. It requires minimal effort just cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast it in the oven. As it cooks, the flesh softens and naturally separates into strands, making it incredibly easy to serve. Once cooked, you can scrape the inside with a fork to create a spaghetti-like texture that soaks up the flavors of any filling or sauce.

Additionally, spaghetti squash is an excellent low-carb alternative to pasta. For those following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free diet, it provides the same satisfaction as a pasta dish without the heavy carbohydrate content. It’s also high in fiber and antioxidants, making it a nutrient-dense option for a balanced meal.

Customizing This Recipe

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. While the combination of spinach, artichokes, and cheese creates a delicious filling, there are plenty of ways to customize the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

1. Make it Vegan

For a dairy-free version, simply swap out the cheese and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives. Many brands offer vegan mozzarella and Parmesan that melt beautifully. You can also use cashew cream or nutritional yeast to add a creamy, cheesy flavor without dairy.

2. Add More Protein

While this dish is already satisfying, you can easily add extra protein to make it even more filling. Try mixing in shredded chicken, crumbled tofu, or chickpeas for a protein boost. If you’re not following a vegetarian diet, cooked bacon or sausage can also add a savory touch.

3. Experiment with Different Cheeses

Mozzarella and Parmesan work wonderfully in this dish, but feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties. Gruyère, feta, or goat cheese can add new layers of flavor, while a touch of cheddar can make it extra rich and comforting.

4. Spice it Up

If you love bold flavors, try adding a little heat to the filling. A dash of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce can bring a slight kick to balance the creamy texture. You can also mix in some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added depth.

Serving Suggestions

This Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides for a complete dinner. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Serve with a Side Salad

A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed squash. Try pairing it with a simple lemon vinaigrette, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and toasted nuts for a crisp and vibrant side.

2. Pair with Roasted Vegetables

For a nutrient-packed plate, serve this dish alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus. The added crunch and caramelized flavor from roasted veggies complement the creamy texture of the filling.

3. Add a Crunchy Topping

While this dish is already delicious as is, a crunchy topping can take it to the next level. Try sprinkling toasted breadcrumbs, crushed nuts, or crispy fried onions on top before serving. This adds texture and makes each bite even more satisfying.

4. Serve with a Protein Side

If you’re not vegetarian, consider pairing this dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for a balanced meal. The light and cheesy flavors of the stuffed squash complement savory meats beautifully.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

One of the great things about this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and stored for later. If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for 3-4 days in an airtight container. When reheating, simply place the squash halves in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes or warm them in the microwave until heated through.

You can also freeze the stuffed squash for up to three months. To do this, wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

For meal prep, consider roasting the squash a day or two in advance. Store the roasted squash halves in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, just prepare the filling, stuff the squash, and bake for the final 20-25 minutes.

Conclusion:

This Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is the perfect combination of comfort food and nutrition. It brings together the indulgent, cheesy flavors of a classic dip with the natural sweetness of roasted squash, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to pasta, a vegetarian main course, or a hearty meal that’s easy to make, this recipe has it all.

Not only is this dish packed with vitamins and fiber, but it’s also highly customizable. With a few ingredient swaps, it can fit into various dietary preferences, from vegan to protein-packed options. Plus, it’s easy to store and reheat, making it a great addition to any meal plan.