If you’re craving a rich and indulgent creamy pasta dish but want to keep it light and low-carb, look no further than this Spaghetti Squash Alfredo. This recipe is the perfect solution for those looking to cut back on carbs while still enjoying the flavors of a classic comfort food. The spaghetti squash serves as the perfect alternative to traditional pasta, offering a slightly sweet, tender texture that pairs beautifully with a creamy, garlicky Alfredo sauce.
This low-carb version of the classic Alfredo is just as delicious as its high-carb counterpart, with the bonus of being gluten-free, and it’s an ideal choice for anyone following keto, paleo, or just looking for a healthier option. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Spaghetti Squash Alfredo will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that, when cooked, yields stringy, spaghetti-like strands. Unlike traditional pasta, which can be high in carbs and calories, spaghetti squash is a nutrient-packed vegetable that provides a lighter, healthier alternative. It’s naturally low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins like Vitamin C and B6, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking to reduce their carb intake.
When cooked, the flesh of the spaghetti squash separates into tender, noodle-like strands, which makes it an ideal base for a variety of dishes, especially those that typically require pasta. In this recipe, the spaghetti squash takes on the rich and creamy flavors of the Alfredo sauce, creating a meal that’s comforting and satisfying without the heaviness.
To make this Spaghetti Squash Alfredo, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti squash perfectly:
Spaghetti Squash Alfredo (Low-Carb & Creamy!)
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti Squash:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash about 3-4 pounds
- Olive oil for roasting
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash
- The first step in making this dish is preparing the spaghetti squash. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Next, carefully slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to remove the seeds from the center of each half. Drizzle the insides with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the spaghetti squash in the preheated oven for about 35 to 45 minutes, or until the flesh is fork-tender. To check if it’s done, insert a fork into the flesh—if it easily pulls apart into strands, it’s ready. Once cooked, remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before using a fork to scrape the flesh into “noodles.”
Step 2: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
- While the spaghetti squash is roasting, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce. Start by heating a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let the cream cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Once the cream has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 3: Combine the Spaghetti Squash with Alfredo Sauce
- Once the spaghetti squash is ready, use a fork to scrape the flesh into noodles and transfer it to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss the squash noodles in the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more cream or a splash of pasta water (if you saved it from boiling spaghetti squash in a pot) to achieve the desired consistency.
- Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and ensure the squash noodles are evenly coated with the Alfredo sauce.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Once the spaghetti squash is well coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce, it’s time to serve! Transfer the squash to plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. For extra richness, you can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
✅ Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and cheese.
✅ Extra protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal.
✅ Serving ideas: Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Squash Alfredo:
- Make it dairy-free: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version of this dish, simply swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheeses in place of the Parmesan and mozzarella. The flavors will still be rich and creamy without the dairy.
- Add protein: To make this dish a complete meal, you can add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even bacon bits for extra protein. Just add them to the sauce before tossing in the spaghetti squash noodles.
- Customize the sauce: Feel free to add herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the Alfredo sauce. A pinch of nutmeg, thyme, or Italian seasoning can elevate the dish to new levels.
Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Squash Alfredo
This Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is everything you want in a comfort food dish—creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying—but without all the carbs and calories of traditional pasta. The spaghetti squash is a wonderful stand-in for pasta, providing a subtle, slightly sweet flavor that complements the rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily modified to suit your dietary preferences.
Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle, gluten-free, or just looking for a healthier alternative to your favorite pasta dish, this Spaghetti Squash Alfredo will hit the spot. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your healthy recipe repertoire, and your family will love it just as much as the classic version.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy creamy, delicious Alfredo without the guilt, Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is your answer. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more vegetables without sacrificing flavor. Try it today, and enjoy the comforting taste of Alfredo—guilt-free!