Who says comfort food can’t be healthy?
If you’re searching for a dish that combines indulgent, creamy flavors with a low-carb twist, this Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole is here to save the day!
Imagine tender strands of spaghetti squash layered with juicy chicken and rich Alfredo sauce, topped with melted cheese and baked to golden perfection.
It’s the ultimate guilt-free comfort food for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping. Ready to dive into this irresistible dish?
Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole
- Low-carb and keto-friendly: Perfect for anyone cutting carbs or following a keto diet.
- Packed with protein: Thanks to the chicken and cheese, it’s a satisfying meal.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this creamy casserole.
- Versatile: Easily customize with different proteins or veggies.
Ingredients Needed for the Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this healthy and delicious dish:
Main Ingredients:
- Spaghetti Squash (2 medium-sized): A low-carb alternative to pasta.
- Cooked Chicken (3 cups shredded or diced): Rotisserie chicken works great!
- Alfredo Sauce (2 cups): Use store-bought or homemade (recipe below).
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup shredded): For that cheesy, melty topping.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup grated): Adds extra flavor.
Seasonings:
- Garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for seasoning layers.
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish.
Optional Additions:
- Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra veggies.
Preparing the Spaghetti Squash
Step 1: Roast the Squash
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 30–40 minutes until tender.
Step 2: Shred the Squash
- Allow the squash to cool slightly.
- Use a fork to scrape out the strands, creating spaghetti-like pieces.
- Set aside in a bowl and gently pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Making the Creamy Alfredo Sauce (Optional)
For a homemade version:
- Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Instructions:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Whisk in Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
- Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
Assembling and Baking the Casserole
Step 1: Layer the Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13 casserole dish.
- Layer half the spaghetti squash, followed by half the chicken.
- Pour half the Alfredo sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 2: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies.
- Serve with garlic bread for those not avoiding carbs.
Recipe Variations:
- Swap chicken for cooked ground turkey or shredded pork.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted broccoli for extra veggies.
- Use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream for a completely dairy-free version.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Once assembled, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of spaghetti squash?
Zucchini noodles or cooked cauliflower rice work well as low-carb alternatives.
Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium spaghetti squash about 3–4 pounds total
- 3 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced (e.g., rotisserie chicken)
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
Seasonings and Garnishes:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for roasting squash
- Fresh parsley or basil chopped (optional garnish)
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup steamed broccoli optional
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms optional
Instructions
Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut and Clean: Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
- Season and Roast: Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast: Bake for 30–40 minutes until the squash is tender and the skin pierces easily with a fork.
- Shred: Let it cool slightly, then use a fork to scrape out the strands of squash into a bowl. Set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce (If Homemade)
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Whisk in ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional).
Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Layer half of the spaghetti squash strands, half the chicken, and half the Alfredo sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake the Casserole
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve warm with a side salad or roasted veggies.