When you’re trying to lose weight, finding tasty meals that also fit into a healthy eating plan can be tough. But what if I told you that you could enjoy a dish that’s cheesy, filling, and perfect for your keto or low-carb diet? Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, let me introduce you to your new favorite meal: the Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Skillet.
If you’re following a keto diet or cutting carbs to help with weight loss, you might miss some of your favorite foods—especially pasta. But before you give up on your beloved comfort foods, say hello to spaghetti squash, your new best friend. This amazing vegetable has the power to satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
Why Spaghetti Squash is Perfect for Weight Loss
Spaghetti squash might look like an ordinary squash, but once it’s cooked, it magically turns into thin, noodle-like strands that mimic pasta. The texture is a bit crunchy, and the flavor is light, so it pairs perfectly with rich, cheesy sauces.
Even better, spaghetti squash is very low in calories and carbs. One cup has only around 40 calories and about 10 grams of carbs, compared to regular pasta, which can have over 200 calories and 40 grams of carbs per serving. This makes it ideal for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet.
But here’s the best part: we’re not just stopping at spaghetti squash—we’re adding cheese, lots of it!
Cheese: The Star Ingredient for Keto Fans
Cheese is one of the best foods for people following keto. It’s high in fat, low in carbs, and super satisfying. In this recipe, we’re using both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to create a creamy, rich sauce that makes this dish feel indulgent, even though it’s still low in carbs.
Let’s be honest, cheese makes everything better. It’s like a comforting friend that always knows how to make you feel good. And when you’re trying to lose weight, having a meal that feels indulgent can make sticking to your plan much easier.
How to Make Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Skillet
Don’t worry if you’ve never cooked with spaghetti squash before. This recipe is simple, and you’ll love the results!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, but makes it look pretty)
Now, let’s break it down step by step.
- Prepare the Squash: Start by cutting your spaghetti squash in half lengthwise (be careful, it can be a little tricky). Scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 30-40 minutes, until the squash is soft and you can easily scrape out the strands with a fork.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: While the squash is roasting, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion powder. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Slowly stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, letting them melt into a thick, creamy sauce. It’s okay if you want to sneak a taste—this part is hard to resist!
- Combine the Squash and Sauce: Once the squash is ready, use a fork to scrape out the “spaghetti” strands and add them to your skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the squash is fully coated in the cheesy sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish and Serve: For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle some more mozzarella on top and pop it under the broiler for a couple of minutes, until it’s bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley if you want to make it look fancy!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Skillet is not just delicious—it’s a great way to stick to your weight loss goals without feeling deprived. It’s rich, comforting, and satisfying, but without the heavy carbs that can leave you feeling sluggish.
Spaghetti squash is also packed with nutrients like vitamin C, B6, and fiber, making it a healthy option that you’ll actually enjoy eating. And let’s not forget about the cheese! The high-fat content from the cheese will help you stay full and energized while sticking to your keto plan.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to lose weight, follow a low-carb diet, or simply try a new healthy recipe, the Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Skillet is a perfect option. It’s easy to make, tastes amazing, and will help you stay on track with your goals.
So next time you’re craving something cheesy and comforting, skip the pasta and try this dish instead. You’ll feel good about what you’re eating, and your taste buds will be thanking you!
Enjoy your cheesy, keto-friendly goodness!
