Rich, comforting, and incredibly wholesome, this Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce is the perfect weeknight dinner for when you want something satisfying but still on the lighter side. The tender strands of roasted spaghetti squash make a delicious low-carb base, soaking up every bit of the velvety, garlicky cream sauce.
The savory mushrooms and wilted spinach give the dish a hearty depth that rivals any pasta recipe. Finished with a sprinkle of parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes, it delivers comfort food vibes with a fresh, veggie-forward twist you’ll crave again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce
It’s rich without being heavy, creamy without dairy overload, and packed with nourishing vegetables. Whether you’re cutting back on pasta, going gluten-free, or just looking for a cozy dinner that feels indulgent but is actually healthy, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s also perfect for meal prep and reheats like a dream!
What Makes Spaghetti Squash a Great Pasta Alternative?
Spaghetti squash naturally separates into long, noodle-like strands once roasted, making it an ideal substitute for pasta. It’s gluten-free, low in calories and carbs, and brings a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy or savory sauces. Plus, it’s packed with fiber and vitamins, adding a nutritional punch to your plate.
Ingredients for the Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce
Each ingredient in this recipe works to create a creamy, earthy, and satisfying dish you’ll love. Here’s why they matter:
- Spaghetti Squash: The star of the dish, serving as a low-carb, gluten-free pasta base.
- Mushrooms: Bring umami depth and a meaty bite that makes this meal hearty and flavorful.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds vibrant color and a dose of leafy green nutrition.
- Garlic: A must-have for infusing rich, aromatic flavor into the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Creates that luscious, velvety texture for the cream sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a touch of healthy fat.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything to life.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Add just the right kick if you like a little heat.


How To Make the Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce
Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 35-40 minutes until tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until browned and their moisture has evaporated.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spinach
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add spinach and sauté until wilted.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in grated parmesan and cook until the sauce slightly thickens. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the strands into a bowl or leave them in the squash boats for presentation. Top with the creamy mushroom-spinach mixture and a final sprinkle of parmesan.
Serving and Storing Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce
This recipe is hearty enough to serve as a main course for 2 people or a side dish for 4. For meal prep, simply store the creamy topping and roasted squash separately in airtight containers. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave just before serving—the sauce will loosen slightly when warmed and soak beautifully into the squash strands.
What to Serve With Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce?
Grilled Chicken Breast
Add a simple grilled chicken breast on the side for extra protein.
Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette
A crispy slice of bread is perfect for scooping up any extra cream sauce.
Mixed Greens Salad
A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts make a great nutrient-dense pairing.
Baked Salmon
The buttery texture of salmon pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
White Beans or Lentils
Tossed with herbs and olive oil, they add a satisfying plant-based protein.
Cauliflower Rice
For an extra light meal, serve it alongside or on top of fluffy cauliflower rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast or dairy-free parmesan instead of regular cheese.
How do I know when the spaghetti squash is fully roasted?
It should be tender when pierced with a fork and the flesh should easily separate into strands when scraped.
Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or even tofu can be added right into the cream sauce or served on top.
What’s the best way to cut a spaghetti squash?
Use a sharp chef’s knife to carefully slice it lengthwise. If it’s too tough, microwave the whole squash for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin slightly.
Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze the cooked spaghetti squash and sauce separately, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.
Save This Pin For Later
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Conclusion
Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce is a flavorful, comforting dish that brings balance to your plate. With its rich and creamy texture, veggie-packed goodness, and low-carb base, it’s a recipe worth repeating all year round. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying vegetarian main or a lighter pasta alternative, this one delivers every time.

Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spaghetti Squash with Mushroom and Spinach Cream Sauce is the perfect combination of cozy and nutritious. The creamy garlic parmesan sauce clings to tender roasted spaghetti squash strands, while the mushrooms and spinach add a savory, earthy balance. Whether you’re in need of quick dinner ideas, a low-carb option, or a healthy comfort food recipe, this dish is a weeknight winner!
Ingredients
1 medium spaghetti squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups sliced mushrooms
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice spaghetti squash lengthwise, scoop out seeds, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast cut-side down on a baking sheet for 35–40 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté until browned and moisture has evaporated.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in parmesan cheese. Simmer until slightly thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
5. Scrape roasted spaghetti squash into strands with a fork. Top with the cream sauce mixture and extra parmesan before serving.
Notes
Roast the squash cut-side down for maximum caramelization.
For dairy-free, use coconut cream and vegan parmesan.
Double the sauce to use over pasta or chicken too!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 squash
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: spaghetti squash, low carb, healthy dinner, vegetarian dinner, creamy mushroom sauce



