Hearty Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash Bake (Print Version)

Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash bake - a comforting, veggie-packed meal. Learn my easy, cheesy recipe for a satisfying dinner.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 45 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American Comfort
Dietary: Vegetarian

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 lbs)
02 - 3 cups broccoli florets
03 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
05 - 2 cups whole milk

→ Flavor Boosters & Cheese

06 - 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
07 - 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
08 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
10 - Pinch of nutmeg

→ Seasonings

11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for squash)

→ Finishing Touches (Optional)

13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Okay, first things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully halve your spaghetti squash lengthwise. This can be a bit of a workout, hon, so be careful with that knife! Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits – I always make a little mess here, honestly. Drizzle the cut sides with a tiny bit of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. I usually roast mine for about 35-45 minutes, until tender. You want it soft enough to easily pull out those lovely strands.
02 - While the squash is doing its thing, get your broccoli ready. I chop mine into bite-sized florets; nobody wants a giant tree in their mouth, right? Steam them until they’re tender-crisp. You don't want them mushy, because they’ll cook a bit more in the sauce. I usually just pop them in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 3-5 minutes. They should still have a vibrant green color and a little resistance when you bite into them, perfect for the Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash.
03 - In a medium saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat. This is where I always get distracted and almost burn it, so stay focused! Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a pale, golden roux. It should smell a little nutty, a good sign! Slowly, <em>slowly</em>, whisk in the milk, making sure to get rid of any lumps. This step is crucial for a smooth sauce, so take your time and be patient.
04 - Once your milk mixture is smooth and starting to thicken, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and that tiny pinch of nutmeg. Keep stirring until all the cheese is beautifully melted and the sauce is wonderfully creamy. Taste it here, hon! Adjust seasonings as needed. This is your moment to make the Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash sauce perfectly <em>yours</em>.
05 - When the spaghetti squash is done, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, using a fork, gently scrape out the strands into a large bowl. It’s so satisfying to see those "spaghetti" strands appear! Add the steamed broccoli and pour that glorious cheese sauce all over everything. Stir it gently to combine. If you want, you can transfer this mixture to a baking dish for an extra bubbly top, making a truly comforting Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash bake.
06 - Pop that baking dish back into the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is slightly golden. Oh, the smells filling your kitchen at this point! It's pure comfort. I love seeing those little browned bits of cheese. Serve it immediately, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you're feeling fancy. Enjoy your warm, comforting Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash!

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcook the spaghetti squash; it turns mushy, and you lose those lovely strands.
02 - Whisk your roux and milk slowly for a lump-free cheese sauce – I learned this the hard way!
03 - Always grate your own cheese for the best melt and flavor in this Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash.
04 - For an extra golden, bubbly top, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two at the very end.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Baking sheet
02 - large knife
03 - cutting board
04 - medium saucepan
05 - whisk
06 - large bowl
07 - baking dish (optional)

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 28g
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Protein: 25g

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