Cheese And Squash: Perfect Pairing For Spaghetti

Spaghetti squash is a versatile dish that can be made in several ways and paired with a variety of cheeses. The type of cheese that goes with spaghetti squash depends on personal preference, but some popular options include Parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar, and sour cream. Some recipes call for a single type of cheese, while others combine multiple cheeses to create a unique flavour profile. For those who want a more indulgent dish, adding heavy cream or butter can enhance the creaminess and richness of the dish.

Mozzarella and Parmesan

Flavour and Texture Profile:

Melting and Browning Properties:

Mozzarella, being a semi-soft cheese, melts beautifully when heated, creating a creamy and cohesive coating for the spaghetti squash strands. This melted cheese helps bind the dish together, ensuring each bite is flavourful and satisfying. Parmesan, with its higher melting point, adds a crispy, browned topping when broiled or baked, providing a delightful contrast in texture and colour.

Recipe Ideas and Combinations:

When using Mozzarella and Parmesan with spaghetti squash, consider the following recipe ideas and combinations:

• Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Squash: Combine melted mozzarella with parmesan and toss with spaghetti squash strands. Bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly, creating a comforting and indulgent dish.
• Spaghetti Squash Casserole: Mix spaghetti squash with mozzarella, parmesan, and other ingredients like eggs, sour cream, and herbs. Bake this mixture to create a hearty and flavourful casserole, perfect as a main course or side dish.
• Four-Cheese Spaghetti Squash: For an extra cheesy treat, combine mozzarella and parmesan with two other cheeses of your choice. Create a creamy sauce by melting the cheeses together and toss with spaghetti squash for a decadent dining experience.
• Spaghetti Squash with Chicken: Pair mozzarella and parmesan spaghetti squash with roasted chicken or slow cooker chicken for a well-rounded meal. The cheese complements the chicken's savoury notes, making it a satisfying and comforting dish.

Tips and Tricks:

• When using mozzarella, opt for the fresh variety, as it melts better and provides a creamier texture.
• For the best flavour, use real Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan) instead of pre-grated varieties.
• Experiment with different types of mozzarella and parmesan to find your preferred flavour profile. For example, buffalo mozzarella has a richer flavour, while aged parmesan has a sharper taste.
• Don't be afraid to mix and match cheeses. Try combining mozzarella and parmesan with mild provolone or Romano for added depth of flavour.

Cheddar and sour cream

This delicious, cheesy spaghetti squash casserole is a wonderful side dish and is filling enough to serve as a meatless main course. It's easy to make and the leftovers are excellent—simply reheat them in the microwave.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3-pound) raw spaghetti squash or 2 1/2 cups cooked spaghetti squash
• 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat)
• 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt or 1/2 teaspoon of any other salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Optional Add-Ins:

• Sauteed spinach, mushrooms, onions, or green onions
• Cooked and shredded grilled chicken breast
• Bacon bits
• Other cheeses such as provolone, gruyere, or gouda

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly spray a 1.5-quart baking dish with olive oil cooking spray.
• Pierce the spaghetti squash in a few spots with a sharp knife. Microwave for 6 minutes, then turn and microwave for another 6 minutes until soft. Let it stand for 5 minutes to finish cooking.
• Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Allow it to cool, then scoop out the pulp and seeds. Rake a fork back and forth to remove the strands of flesh into a bowl.
• In a large bowl, lightly whisk an egg. Add the sour cream, kosher salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and minced garlic. Whisk until smooth.
• Mix in the cooked spaghetti squash and the shredded cheese.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Bake until browned, about 40 minutes.
• Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes, then scoop it onto plates or cut it into squares and serve.

Gruyere, provolone, or gouda

Gruyere, provolone, and gouda are all excellent cheeses to pair with spaghetti squash. All three are semi-hard cheeses that melt well and have a rich and creamy texture.

Gruyere is a hard Swiss cheese with a nutty and buttery flavour. It is a good melting cheese, making it perfect for casseroles and gratins. It is also a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches.

Provolone is a mild cheese with a creamy texture. It is a good choice for those who want a less intense cheese flavour. Provolone melts well and can be used in casseroles, grilled cheese sandwiches, or as a topping for spaghetti squash.

Gouda is a semi-hard cheese with a wide range of flavours depending on its age. Younger gouda melts easily and can be used in place of gruyere, while older gouda has a more intense flavour and is often used for snacking or on charcuterie boards.

When using any of these cheeses with spaghetti squash, they can be incorporated into the dish in various ways. They can be melted into a sauce, sprinkled on top of the squash, or mixed with other ingredients to create a topping or filling. For example, a spaghetti squash casserole can be made by combining roasted spaghetti squash strands with a creamy sauce made from any of these three cheeses, along with other ingredients such as caramelized onions, ground turkey, and spinach. The casserole is then baked in the oven until bubbly and golden.

Additionally, all three cheeses can be used in place of each other in many recipes, so feel free to experiment and find the combination that suits your taste preferences.

Parmigiano-Reggiano

When choosing Parmigiano-Reggiano to pair with spaghetti squash, it is important to look for a cheese with a firm texture and a complex flavour profile. The cheese should be finely grated to allow for even distribution and melting.

When combining Parmigiano-Reggiano with spaghetti squash, consider balancing the dish with other ingredients. Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil can add a bright, fresh flavour. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil can help to lighten the dish and enhance the overall flavour profile.

In terms of specific recipes, Parmigiano-Reggiano pairs well with spaghetti squash in casseroles, bakes, and roasted dishes. It can be combined with other cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to create a creamy sauce or topping. The salty, savoury notes of Parmigiano-Reggiano also complement a variety of spices and herbs, making it a versatile cheese to work with.

Cheddar and Swiss or Havari

Spaghetti Squash and Cheese: The Dynamic Duo

Spaghetti squash is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be transformed into a comforting and indulgent meal with the right combination of ingredients. One of the most popular pairings for spaghetti squash is cheese, and for good reason! The right type of cheese can take your spaghetti squash dish to the next level, adding creaminess, sharpness, or a subtle tanginess that complements the squash's natural sweetness.

When it comes to choosing the perfect cheese to accompany spaghetti squash, one option that stands out is the dynamic duo of Cheddar and Swiss or Havari. This combination offers a delightful contrast of flavours and textures that will elevate your meal. Here's a guide to help you master this pairing:

The Cheddar and Swiss Combination

Cheddar and Swiss cheeses are a match made in heaven when it comes to spaghetti squash. The sharpness of Cheddar adds a bold kick to the dish, while the creamy and nutty Swiss cheese provides a mellow balance. Together, they create a flavour profile that is both complex and irresistibly delicious.

To prepare this mouthwatering duo with your spaghetti squash, start by roasting the squash in the oven. Once tender, remove it from its shell and give it a good squeeze to remove any excess liquid—this step is crucial to ensuring your dish isn't soggy. Then, simply mix in shredded Cheddar and Swiss cheeses, along with some spices like dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Transfer this cheesy mixture to a baking dish and pop it back into the oven until it's golden brown and bubbly.

Havari: A Delicious Alternative

If you're feeling adventurous or want to explore a different flavour profile, Havari cheese is a fantastic alternative to the traditional Swiss. Havari is a semi-soft cheese with a mild, buttery flavour and a hint of sweetness. Its creamy texture and subtle tang make it an excellent choice for those who want a slightly lighter option without compromising on taste.

When using Havari, follow the same preparation steps as you would with the Cheddar and Swiss combination. The beauty of this cheese is that it melts beautifully, creating a creamy sauce that coats each strand of spaghetti squash. You can also experiment with adding breadcrumbs to the topping for a satisfying crunch.

Customisation Ideas

The beauty of spaghetti squash and cheese is that it serves as a versatile base for customisation. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add some protein: Mix in cooked chicken sausage or shredded grilled chicken breast for a heartier meal.
• Veggie boost: Sauteed spinach, mushrooms, onions, or green onions can add both flavour and nutritional value.
• Cheesy variations: Experiment with different combinations, such as Romano or mild provolone cheese. You can also try using cream cheese or sour cream for a tangier, creamier twist.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti squash and cheese is a match made in culinary heaven, and the versatility of this dish knows no bounds. Whether you opt for the classic sharpness of Cheddar and Swiss or the subtle sweetness of Havari, your taste buds are in for a treat. So, get creative, experiment with mix-ins, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food that's both satisfying and packed with flavour!

Frequently asked questions