Deliciously Creamy Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats for Comfort

When I first tasted Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats, it was an unforgettable moment straight from my own kitchen that’s been shaping my cooking philosophy ever since. The surprise wasn’t just the creamy comfort from the healthy Alfredo sauce but how beautifully the spaghetti squash took center stage as a gluten-free pasta alternative. This recipe really reflects my approach at Carmen Wausa Blog—making approachable, comforting meals that bring people around the table. Every time I make this dish, it fills the kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to gather and savor each bite. Ready to create your own Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats adventure?

Ingredients

Raw ingredients laid out for Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats including spaghetti squash, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and cream

This Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats ingredient list is surprisingly simple but delivers incredible comfort! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds) – The star, naturally low-carb and perfect for gluten-free pasta alternatives. Choose squash with firm skin for the best texture.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – For roasting the squash, adding just the right richness.
  • 1 cup heavy cream – The creamy base of our healthy Alfredo sauce, making every bite satisfyingly smooth.
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds that classic nutty, tangy flavor that makes Alfredo sauce irresistible.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic elevates this spaghetti squash stuffing idea.
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – A subtle but essential touch that deepens the sauce’s flavor.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

You’ll find the best ingredients at your local farmers’ market or grocery store’s produce and cheese sections. For a richer flavor, choose a good quality, freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Customize by swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or dairy-free alternatives. Add cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal. Roast the squash ahead and refrigerate strands up to 3 days, making the sauce fresh or a day ahead.

Let’s Make This!

Making Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats is a joy, and your kitchen will fill with wonderful aromas along the way. Follow these steps to bring the recipe to life:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
  2. Brush halves with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Roast for 40–45 minutes. Squash should be tender and shred easily with a fork.
  4. Make Alfredo sauce. Melt 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Whisk in Parmesan and nutmeg. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is silky. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Scrape squash strands into a bowl, leaving shells intact for boats.
  8. Mix strands with Alfredo sauce evenly. Adjust seasoning.
  9. Fill each squash half with creamy mixture. Place back on baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until tops are golden and bubbly.

Add protein or veggies like shredded rotisserie chicken or steamed broccoli before broiling if desired. The fragrant broiling signals a warm, comforting dinner ready to unite your family.

Serving & Presentation

Close-up of finished Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats garnished with parsley

These boats look vibrant and inviting served in their golden shells, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. Pair them with a simple green salad tossed with light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A crusty gluten-free bread on the side complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

They are ideal for cozy fall dinners or special occasions and are a hit at potlucks—usually disappearing quickly! Leftovers reheat wonderfully in the oven or microwave, or can be scooped into bowls for a quick lunch.

Try seasonal twists by adding sautéed mushrooms and spinach in winter or sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil in summer for equally delicious variations.

For more comforting squash ideas, check out my Simanim Stuffed Butternut Squash, Butternut Squash Lasagna, or Stuffed Bell Pepper Rice Boats.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Roast spaghetti squash up to 3 days ahead and store strands separately. Alfredo sauce can be made a day ahead and reheated gently.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce. Dairy-free creams also work well.

How do I know when spaghetti squash is done?
Strands should pull away easily with a fork and be tender but not mushy — about 40-45 minutes roasting time.

Can I add protein or veggies?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach make delicious stuffing options. For inspiration, see this Skinny Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Spaghetti Squash.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, spaghetti squash is naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.

How to best serve leftovers?
Reheat in oven or microwave, or incorporate into a fresh salad. Some enjoy it cold as well.

How to avoid watery sauce?
Drain excess moisture from squash strands with a paper towel before mixing with sauce to keep it creamy.

For more community tips and variations on Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats, explore this gluten-free spaghetti squash boats recipe or the indulgent creamy versions shared here.

Why This Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite

This dish is approachable, comforting, and creative—a perfect fit for weekly meals. Tips for success include roasting squash cut-side down for tender strands, stirring Alfredo sauce gently for silkiness, and broiling the final dish for a golden top.

Variations like chicken-filled boats, mushroom-spinach versions, and dairy-free sauces bring versatility and smiles to every table. This recipe promises a healthy, cozy dinner that feels special without fuss. Share your delicious results and family moments; these boats are more than dinner—they are starting points for connection and memories around your table.

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Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats

Homemade Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats Close-Up

Delight in these creamy and comforting Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Boats, a low-carb twist on a classic Italian favorite that’s both nutritious and delicious.

  • Author: Carmen
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 70 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
  3. Drizzle the inside of the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until tender.
  5. While the squash roasts, prepare the Alfredo sauce by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  6. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  7. Remove the squash from the oven and use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, leaving it inside the skin.
  8. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the spaghetti squash strands, mixing gently to combine.
  9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top if using.
  10. Return the boats to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles.
  11. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For added protein, toss in cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms before baking the final 10 minutes.

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