This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a satisfying, low-carb comfort meal that’s packed with flavor. The tender strands of roasted spaghetti squash get loaded with a rich and creamy mixture of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and spinach, creating a wholesome and cozy dish that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe strikes a balance between hearty and healthy. The creamy filling makes it feel like a comfort food favorite, while the spaghetti squash base keeps things light and gluten-free. It’s perfect for weeknights when I want something nourishing and filling, and it doubles easily if I’m feeding guests. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can be made vegan with a couple of swaps, which makes it super versatile.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Spaghetti squash
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Olive oil
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Fresh mushrooms (like cremini or button)
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Fresh spinach
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Garlic cloves
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Onion
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Cream cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
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Grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for a vegan version)
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Salt and pepper
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Red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
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I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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I cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, drizzle the inside with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
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I place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast them for about 35-40 minutes, until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
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While the squash is roasting, I sauté chopped onions and garlic in a pan with olive oil until fragrant.
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I add in the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
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Then I stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down.
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I reduce the heat and mix in cream cheese and Parmesan until everything is creamy and well combined.
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Once the squash is cooked, I use a fork to fluff the strands and gently mix them with the creamy spinach and mushroom mixture right inside the squash shells.
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I place them back in the oven for 5-10 more minutes to warm everything through and slightly brown the top if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 generously or 4 as a side dish.
Total time: About 50 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add a bit of shredded rotisserie chicken to the filling for extra protein. For a vegan option, I swap the cream cheese and Parmesan for plant-based alternatives. If I want a kick, I sprinkle a bit of crushed red pepper into the creamy mixture. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil also make a lovely addition depending on the mood I’m in.
storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I either pop it in the microwave for a couple of minutes or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. I find the oven keeps the texture a bit better.
FAQs
How do I know when the spaghetti squash is fully cooked?
I check if a fork easily scrapes the squash into strands. If it’s still a bit hard, I roast it for 5–10 more minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, I often prep the filling ahead and stuff the squash right before baking. That way, it’s fresh but saves time.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
It is! Spaghetti squash is lower in carbs than pasta, and the creamy filling fits well into a keto diet, especially if I use full-fat dairy.
Can I freeze stuffed spaghetti squash?
I don’t recommend freezing it because the squash can get watery when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored short-term in the fridge.
What mushrooms work best in this recipe?
I typically use cremini, but white button mushrooms or even a mix with shiitake add great depth to the flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is one of those meals that feels like a treat but still keeps things healthy and wholesome. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. I love how every bite is packed with creamy, garlicky goodness and nourishing veggies.
Print
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings (or 4 as a side)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a comforting, low-carb, gluten-free dish featuring roasted spaghetti squash filled with a creamy mixture of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, spinach, and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, drizzle the inside with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes, until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and begin to brown.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Reduce heat and mix in cream cheese and Parmesan until creamy and combined.
- Once squash is cooked, use a fork to fluff the strands and mix them with the creamy filling inside the shells.
- Return to the oven for 5-10 minutes to heat through and lightly brown the top, if desired.
Notes
- Add shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
- Use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil for variation.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed half
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg