Make this a complete meal by pairing with the bold flavours of Gochajang Short Ribs! When autumn starts to kick in with shorter days and colder temperatures, it’s a signal to me that we are well and truly into squash season. And what a great time of year it is! All varieties of squash can work amazingly well as the base for a main course. I end up preparing it in many ways – I love it roasted! – but this stuffed squash is truly fantastic! This stuffed spaghetti squash recipe was developed when I purchased some spaghetti squash at the same time that I was feeling nostalgic for classic spinach and artichoke dip. Seemed like fun combo! Happily, they worked together fantastically well. I hope you enjoy it as much as me!
Spaghetti squash
There are a number of types of squash that get grouped together under the name of spaghetti squash. They can come in a few different colours and shapes, but they can be cooked in the same way. If you cut open a spaghetti squash when raw, the flesh is solid and similar to other types. It’s when cooked that spaghetti squash gets its name. It breaks up into long ribbons that come out like the pasta it is named for. The taste is naturally sweet without being overwhelming, similar to other squash varieties. And because of the remarkable squash strands, it can be a brilliant substitute for pasta. If you are a fan, try deliciously savoury Spaghetti Squash Bolognese! It follows a similar idea of stuffing the spaghetti squash boats with amazing stuffing!
Spinach and artichoke stuffing
I knew that spaghetti squash would be great with any number of stuffings, but I’ve been looking for an excuse to use spinach and artichoke dip in a new way. It’s commonly used with bread, but it’s just too good to not find new ways to eat it. The dip can be prepared while the squash are roasting to save time. Heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan or large skillet, then minced garlic and the fresh spinach. Stir until it has wilted. Now add the artichokes, giving then a minute to sauté, and then the cream cheese and let it melt in over low heat. Don’t forget to keep stirring. The pan can be removed from heat, then add the mayonnaise, Parmesan and mozzarella. Make sure to keep some of the grated Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over each squash half. The stuffing is now good to go and can be split between the squash halves to finish baking. Take a look at the recipe card for full instructions. The whole process will take a bit more than an hour to finish, most of this is letting the squash roast in the oven. The cooking time you’ll need to be present for is pleasantly short.
Serving suggestions
The idea behind this recipe was to create a vegetarian main dish to serve at dinner time. It works amazingly in that role, or as a low-carb meal, especially when paired with a hearty salad. If sticking to a vegetarian diet is not your priority or looking for a hearty meal, stuffed squash is a wonderful side dish to a meaty main. Try it with Braised Short Ribs or Beef Fillet for a spectacular five-star dinner!
Storage and leftovers
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven set to 180C/350F for 15-20 minutes or in a microwave. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let them fully defrost and come to room temperature then reheat in the same way as refrigerated leftovers.
More squash recipes
Butternut Squash Casserole Butternut Squash Risotto with Sage and Goat Cheese Roasted Squash Pasta with Pancetta and Swiss Chard Chickpea and Butternut Squash Curry
