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Cozy Spaghetti Squash Casserole

A warm, comforting, and utterly delicious Spaghetti Squash Casserole that is surprisingly simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It's a wholesome twist on comfort food, packed with flavor and creamy goodness.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 6

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 0.5 pound ground turkey leaner protein
  • 2 spaghetti squash 3-pound each
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves packed
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 0.5 teaspoon granulated onion
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1.5 tablespoons fresh sage leaves chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves chopped
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour thickener
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 pinch nutmeg for depth
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter for sauce
  • 1 cup Gruyere cheese grated, divided
  • 3 cups whole milk for creamy sauce
  • 0.5 cup crispy fried onions for topping

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-60 minutes until tender.
    0.5 pound ground turkey
  • While squash roasts, brown ground turkey in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
    0.5 pound ground turkey
  • Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    0.5 pound ground turkey
  • Add minced garlic, granulated garlic, granulated onion, chopped sage, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
    0.5 pound ground turkey
  • Sprinkle in flour, Italian seasoning, nutmeg, black pepper, white pepper, and salt. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes.
    0.5 pound ground turkey
  • Gradually whisk in whole milk. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring often, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
    0.5 pound ground turkey
  • Stir in spinach and half of the Gruyere cheese until spinach wilts and cheese melts.
    0.5 pound ground turkey
  • Shred the cooked spaghetti squash strands from the shells using a fork.
    0.5 pound ground turkey
  • Add the shredded squash to the skillet with the turkey and sauce. Stir to combine.
  • Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  • Sprinkle the remaining Gruyere cheese and crispy fried onions over the top.
    0.5 pound ground turkey
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and baked when ready. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking if refrigerated. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.