Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash Mac And Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that many Americans love. However, it can be heavy and unhealthy, often made with lots of butter, cheese, and heavy cream. If you're looking for a healthier alternative that still satisfies your cravings, try making Instant Pot spaghetti squash mac and cheese. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and low in calories. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps of making this dish and explain why it's a great choice for your health.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about spaghetti squash. Spaghetti squash is a winter squash that is oblong in shape and yellow in color. When cooked, the flesh of the squash separates into strands that resemble spaghetti noodles, hence the name. Spaghetti squash is a great alternative to traditional pasta because it's low in carbs, calories, and fat. It's also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash Mac And Cheese Recipe
Now that you know about spaghetti squash, let's get into the recipe. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
- Place the spaghetti squash halves on top of the trivet.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to Manual mode for 7 minutes.
- Once the time is up, release the pressure and remove the spaghetti squash from the Instant Pot.
- Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash into strands and set aside.
- In a separate pot, melt the butter and add the garlic and onion powder. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add the milk, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the pot and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the spaghetti squash to the pot and mix until the squash is coated in the cheese sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Enjoy!
Why Spaghetti Squash Mac And Cheese Is a Great Choice for Your Health
Not only is spaghetti squash mac and cheese delicious, but it's also a healthier choice compared to traditional mac and cheese. Here are some reasons why:
- Spaghetti squash is low in calories and carbs, which makes it a great choice for weight loss and diabetes management.
- Spaghetti squash is a good source of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and lowers the risk of colon cancer.
- Spaghetti squash is high in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and protects against infections.
- By using milk and cheese in the sauce instead of heavy cream and butter, you reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories in the dish.
Overall, spaghetti squash mac and cheese is a tasty and nutritious dish that you can feel good about eating. Give it a try and see for yourself!