Cheesy broccoli spaghetti squash is the perfect combination of velvety cheddar, tender broccoli florets, and sweet, nutty spaghetti squash. It’s rich, comforting, and topped with golden, bubbly cheese that’ll have you coming back for seconds. If you’ve been searching for a healthy spaghetti squash recipe that’s as indulgent as it is nourishing, this is it!

I’ve made countless versions of cheesy spaghetti squash with broccoli, and this one reigns supreme. A creamy cheddar sauce wraps around the delicate strands of spaghetti squash, while roasted broccoli adds just the right amount of texture and flavor. It’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!

Why This Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash Is So Irresistible

Perfectly roasted squash: Roasting spaghetti squash enhances its natural sweetness and creates strands that are tender yet satisfyingly chewy.
Ultra-creamy cheddar sauce: Made with sharp cheddar, butter, and milk, this dreamy sauce clings to every bite.
Simple and approachable: Whether you’re new to squash or a seasoned pro, this easy cheesy spaghetti squash recipe is foolproof.
Healthier comfort food: It’s hearty and cheesy without being overly heavy, making it ideal for weeknight cooking.
Customizable: You can get creative with add-ins like cooked chicken, mushrooms, or even crispy bacon!

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

This recipe keeps it simple with everyday ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Here are the key players:

Spaghetti squash: The star of the dish! Choose a medium squash that’s around 2 1/2 pounds with a firm, unblemished skin. If you can’t find spaghetti squash, you can swap it with roasted butternut squash noodles or zucchini noodles for a lighter twist.
Broccoli: Just the right balance of tender and crisp, broccoli is a classic pairing with cheddar. Frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, but fresh florets deliver the best texture.
Cheddar cheese: Go for sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for that bold, tangy flavor. Need a substitute? Gruyère or Monterey Jack will melt beautifully, too.
Whole milk: The base of the cheese sauce. For a creamier result, you can use half-and-half, but skip skim milk as it doesn’t create the same luscious texture.

Pro tip: Grate your cheese fresh from a block for the smoothest sauce! Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting.

Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash Recipe Details

Servings: 3 – 4 serving(s)
Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 1 hr 15 mins
Total: 1 hr 15 mins

Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 1/2 lb.)
1 Tbsp. neutral oil
1 3/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided (or more, to taste)
6 oz. broccoli, cut into 1″ florets (about 1 1/4 cups)
1 Tbsp. plus 1/4 cup water, divided
3 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole milk
4 oz. cheddar cheese, shredded, divided (about 1 cup)

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

Prep the squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Rub the cut sides with oil and sprinkle with 1 tsp. salt. Place cut side down on a baking sheet.
Roast to perfection: Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the edges are browned. Let cool for a few minutes, then use a fork to scrape out the strands.
Steam the broccoli: In a microwave-safe bowl, toss the broccoli florets with 1/4 tsp. salt and 1 Tbsp. water. Cover and microwave for 1 minute. Stir, then continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until fork-tender, 30 seconds to 1 minute more. Uncover and let cool.
Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and 1/2 tsp. salt, cooking until softened (about 7–8 minutes). Stir in garlic and let it cook until fragrant, another minute. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly until you have a bubbling paste, about 1 minute.
Whisk and thicken: Slowly pour in milk and the remaining 1/4 cup water while whisking. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, roughly 1–2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat, then mix in 3 oz. of shredded cheddar until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine the squash and sauce: Add 3 cups of shredded spaghetti squash strands to the skillet, tossing to coat. Stir in the steamed broccoli.
Assemble and broil: Spoon the mixture back into the spaghetti squash shells. Top with the remaining cheddar. Broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is bubbly and browned.

Expert Tips for the Best Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash

Don’t over-roast: Squash should be tender but not mushy for the best texture.
Season thoughtfully: Layering salt at each stage adds depth to the dish.
Microwave steaming: It’s quick for broccoli, but steaming or blanching on the stovetop works, too.
Reheat the right way: Leftovers are best reheated on a covered plate in the microwave to keep them moist.
Make it ahead: Prep the roasted squash and cheese sauce up to a day ahead to save time.

Delicious Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash Variations

Add protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for a heartier meal.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Switch cheeses: Try a combo of mozzarella and Parmesan for an Italian-inspired take.
Make it vegetarian: Swap the cheddar for a plant-based substitute to create a meat-free version.

Cheesy Broccoli Spaghetti Squash FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, though I recommend defrosting it first and patting it dry to avoid watering down the cheese sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For easier storage, remove the squash mixture from the shells.

Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it without the cheese topping. Thaw, top with cheese, and broil before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat it?

Microwave is the easiest method! Cover the dish to retain moisture while heating.

Are you ready to dig into this cheesy broccoli spaghetti squash? Let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your fun variations—I love hearing your creative ideas!