Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe

Whipping up a delectable chicken alfredo spaghetti squash casserole brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table.

Creamy sauce cascades over tender roasted squash strands, creating a low-carb marvel that satisfies without guilt.

Lean protein and rich parmesan cheese meld together in a harmonious blend of flavors.

Weeknight meals gain new meaning with this simple yet elegant dish.

Forget heavy pasta and embrace a lighter, more nutritious alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Seasonal ingredients transform an ordinary casserole into a memorable culinary experience.

Grab a fork and prepare to be amazed by this mouthwatering creation that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious.

What Makes Chicken Alfredo Squash Casserole Delicious

  • Transform traditional pasta into a healthier, low-carb alternative using spaghetti squash, making this dish perfect for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
  • Easily prepare this casserole ahead of time, storing it in the refrigerator and baking when ready, which saves precious time during busy weekdays and provides a convenient dinner solution.
  • Adapt the recipe by adding different proteins like shrimp or turkey, mixing in extra vegetables, or experimenting with various cheese blends to suit personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Deliver a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that appeals to both adults and kids, making it an excellent choice for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends.

Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Main Ingredients:
  • Spaghetti Squash: Sweet and stringy vegetable that replaces traditional pasta.
  • Chicken: Protein-rich main component of the casserole.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Flavorful cheese that adds rich, salty taste.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melty cheese that creates a golden, gooey topping.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream, Butter: Creates a rich and creamy Alfredo base.
  • Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
  • Salt, Pepper, Nutmeg: Seasonings that enhance overall flavor.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Helps roast the spaghetti squash.
  • Fresh Parsley or Basil: Bright herb for garnish and fresh flavor.

Cooking Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Spaghetti Squash

Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise with a sharp knife.

Carefully remove the seeds using a spoon.

Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet, ready for roasting.

Step 2: Roast Squash

Slide the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C).

Roast for 30-40 minutes until the squash becomes tender.

You’ll know it’s ready when a fork easily pierces the skin.

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Transform Squash into Strands

Grab a fork and gently scrape the inside of the squash.

Watch as magical spaghetti-like strands form and fall into a large mixing bowl.

Set the strands aside for later use.

Step 4: Create Luxurious Alfredo Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add these ingredients:
  • Minced garlic
  • Heavy cream

Simmer the mixture for 3-4 minutes.

Whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Season with:
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Begin layering with:
  • Thin layer of Alfredo sauce
  • Spaghetti squash strands
  • Cooked chicken
  • More Alfredo sauce
  • Sprinkle of Parmesan

Repeat the layers, ending with a generous topping of mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue baking for 10-15 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Serve the casserole warm alongside a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Top Tips for Chicken Alfredo Squash Casserole

  • Replace spaghetti squash with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for alternative low-carb options that maintain the dish's delicious texture.
  • Pat spaghetti squash strands dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and ensure a creamy, rich final dish without unwanted liquid.
  • Add cooked shredded rotisserie chicken or swap for turkey for a different protein profile that keeps the meal exciting and nutritious.
  • Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to create a lactose-free version that's equally delectable.
  • Roast spaghetti squash cut-side down to prevent burning and promote even, tender cooking with maximum flavor development.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat the Casserole

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the casserole cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F, cover the casserole with foil, and warm for 15-20 minutes. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the cheese and restore the golden top.

Chicken Alfredo Squash Casserole Pairings

Elevate Creamy Comfort: Perfectly Pair Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

  • Select a Crisp White Wine: Choose a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce and complement the delicate squash flavors.
  • Create a Bright Side Salad: Toss mixed greens with a zesty lemon vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty, cheesy casserole.
  • Serve with Roasted Garlic Bread: Prepare crusty bread brushed with olive oil and roasted garlic to soak up the decadent Alfredo sauce and add a satisfying crunch.
  • Add Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley on top to introduce a light, aromatic element that lifts the dish's richness.

Flavor Ideas for Chicken Alfredo Squash Casserole

  • Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Version: Replace spaghetti squash with spiralized zucchini noodles for a lower-carb alternative that maintains a similar texture and absorbs the creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly.
  • Dairy-Free Coconut Cream Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to create a dairy-free version that's equally rich and satisfying.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or sautéed tofu cubes seasoned with Italian herbs, providing a plant-based protein option while keeping the casserole's creamy essence intact.
  • Keto-Friendly Cauliflower Remix: Use cauliflower rice as a base instead of spaghetti squash, adding extra low-carb vegetables and maintaining the casserole's comforting qualities for those following a strict ketogenic diet.

FAQs

  • Is spaghetti squash a good pasta replacement?

Yes! Spaghetti squash provides a low-carb, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional pasta. It’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and has a similar texture that mimics spaghetti noodles perfectly.

  • Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option that works great in this casserole. Simply shred the meat and use it as a convenient protein source that adds extra flavor.

  • How do I know when the spaghetti squash is fully roasted?

The squash is ready when the skin easily pierces with a fork and the inside strands separate easily. It typically takes 30-40 minutes at 400°F, and the flesh should look tender and slightly golden.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole is naturally gluten-free. The spaghetti squash replaces pasta, and the other ingredients like cream, cheese, and chicken do not contain gluten.

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Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Savor Italian-inspired comfort with this chicken alfredo spaghetti squash casserole, a delightful low-carb twist on classic pasta. Creamy cheese and tender chicken mingle with roasted squash strands, creating a wholesome meal that satisfies without guilt.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 medium spaghetti squash (about 34 pounds total)
  • 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

Cheese and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 cup steamed broccoli
  • 1 cup sautéed mushrooms

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley (chopped, optional)
  • Fresh basil (chopped, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 400°F (200°C) for roasting the spaghetti squash.
  2. Carefully halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise and remove the seeds using a spoon.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the squash halves and season with salt and pepper, positioning them cut-side down on a baking sheet.
  4. Roast for 30–40 minutes until the squash becomes tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Allow the squash to cool slightly, then gently extract the stringy flesh using a fork into a separate bowl.
  6. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until aromatic.
  7. Pour heavy cream into the pan and simmer for 3–4 minutes to develop rich flavors.
  8. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  9. Enhance the sauce with salt, pepper, and an optional touch of nutmeg.
  10. Adjust the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a light grease.
  11. Create a thin Alfredo sauce base in the casserole dish.
  12. Construct the first layer using half the spaghetti squash strands, chicken, and Alfredo sauce, sprinkling Parmesan cheese.
  13. Repeat the layering process, topping with mozzarella cheese for a golden finish.
  14. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  15. Uncover and continue baking for 10–15 minutes until the cheese turns bubbly and golden brown.
  16. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil and serve alongside a crisp salad or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Enhance the roasting process by piercing the squash with a fork before baking to help steam escape and prevent potential bursting.
  • Drain excess moisture from cooked spaghetti squash using a clean kitchen towel to prevent a watery casserole texture.
  • Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for lighter, dietary-friendly alternatives that maintain creamy consistency.
  • Incorporate additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini to boost nutritional value and add extra flavor complexity.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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