Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Sauce
A delightful dish combining the comforting essence of cheesy goodness with the wholesome richness of spaghetti squash, topped with a crispy panko crust.
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti Squash
- 2 medium spaghetti squash (about 2½ lbs/1.1 kg each)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Adds a rich, fruity flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt To enhance natural flavors
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Infuses the dish with warmth and spice
- 1¾ cups jarred marinara sauce Opt for high-quality brands like Rao's or Victoria
- 2 te teaspoons chopped fresh thyme Adds earthy, herbal notes
- 1½ cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese Provides a gooey layer
- 3 tablespoons finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano Adds a salty, nutty flavor
- 1½ tablespoons unsalted butter Melted for the topping
- ¾ cup panko Creates a crispy topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Cut a small sliver off the stem end of each spaghetti squash. Stand each squash on a cutting board and slice through them vertically.
- Scrape out the seeds from the center of each squash using a soup spoon.
Roasting the Squash
- Place squash halves cut-side-up on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Flip cut-side-down.
- Roast for 40 to 50 minutes, until golden brown beneath and tender when pierced with a fork.
Mixing and Assembling
- Flip the squash halves cut-side-up and let cool. Use a fork to scrape out the strands.
- Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Combine spaghetti strands with marinara sauce, ¾ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and thyme in a bowl and toss gently.
- Transfer the mixture to an ungreased 9 x 13-inch baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella and then grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on top.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with panko and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
Baking
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. Cool slightly, garnish with additional thyme, and serve warm.
Notes
For a smoky twist, add smoked paprika. Consider adding cooked Italian sausage or sautéed mushrooms for richer flavors. Always choose squash with a dull skin, indicating ripeness.