As promised, I'll alternate the sweet and the "actual food" reviews here. Yes, there is some real food that is hitting shelves. But don't get too attached this item as it is seasonal. Or if you are into it, then this is your cue to stock up.
Taste
This is one of three actual food items that Trader Joe's has added only temporarily to the frozen aisle: Harvest Spaghetti Spirals, Organic Delicata Squash, and this casserole.
Now, that raised a question in my mind while eating this. What exactly is a casserole? I came up with a vague definition in my research of a dish that is cooked in an oven over a long period of time.
And when I tried this it reminded me of Mac and Cheese as that is technically a casserole as well. And I'm not talking about the boxed kind. The real homemade with love kind. This is basically Mac & Cheese without the Mac. So the calorie bomb that is Trader Joe's Diner Mac and Cheese can be made healthier by the substitution of Spaghetti Squash. Yes, eating each of those trays will set you back approximately the same number of calories, but this is way more filling.
This item is better in the oven than the microwave, but it depends on how much time you are willing to put into things. The oven way will set you back nearly and hour, while the microwave will take about 10 minutes. Yes, this I've had four times now, so I've tested things both ways.
If you are willing to wait you will be rewarded with a deliciously crisp crust on top that adds a layer of texture to this. The breadcrumbs were still reasonably crisp out of the microwave all things considered. It does a better job of the sauce combining with the squash out of the oven too.
Overall
There are fewer cheeses in this than a typical Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese. This is parmesan and cheddar. But you get the same comforting vibe.
No matter, if you enjoy the hearty goodness of mac and cheese but don't want the added calories of the pasta, then this is a good find.
For $4.99 this serves two people in the real world. It's no low-calorie side, but it is a tasty one.
Would I buy this again? Yes, I've bought a few more. Just in case. Because you never know.
On a fun side note, today is International Podcast Day. If you don't know what a Podcast is, then it's basically a self-hosted radio show put out on the internet. I was interviewed over the Summer on a Podcast called BFF with the Chef. So if you've ever wondered why Trader Joe's isn't in my website name, I answer that question in the Podcast too.
You can check out the episode on iTunes here. Not an Apple person? It's also on Stitcher here. Or on the Google Play Store here.
Product photos
The box of Trader Joe's Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole:
Calories
Ingredients
Directions
Out of the package you get:
After being cooked you get:
Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe’s for a searchable list.
Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!
Trader Joe's Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Product Name: Trader Joe's Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Product Description: Spaghetti Squash in bechamel sauce with a cheesy crust.
Price: $4.99
Summary
An easy side dish of main course that has a mac and cheese goodness to it.
-
Taste
-
Value
-
Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- I've purchased this three times
- Easy way to consume veggies
- Has a mac and cheese like creamy goodness to it (minus the mac)
Cons
- Based on the directions, mine didn't quite get as golden brown on the picture. Some broiling might be required.
- Seasonal item
AJ says
It sounds really good!
becomebetty says
I've enjoyed it. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Dag says
Thanks for the review but I think I will pass on this one. I don't really like squash.
becomebetty says
Fair enough. Bad news is that there are a lot of new squash items hitting shelves.
judilyn says
Ha! How did you know there is a spaghetti squash sitting on my counter next to the InstantPot for inclusion in tonight's dinner? We are having BBQ pulled beef on sourdough rounds and the squash. Now I'll need to jazz the leftover squash into something Trader Joe-ish for tomorrow night! Thanks for the impetus! ;->
Virtual hugs,
Judie
becomebetty says
Hey Judie! Great minds think alike! Are you going to post your dinner on your blog? I'd love to see pictures. I also picked up some new sourdough bread. Coincidence? Thanks as always for stopping by!
Alek says
It nice offering for those whom wants a different take on Mac & Cheese. Less carbs
becomebetty says
Hey Alek! Yes, lower in carbs, but unfortunately not a gluten free item. I know some people are going to be bummed out about that. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Beth says
I've seen it in TJ's but, even though it's low carb, it still has a high calorie count for a side dish. I haven't taken the plunge yet. Maybe I'm missing a real treat.
Tamie says
Sounds great. I would have liked to see a picture of what it looked like after you scooped it onto a plate also. I really enjoy your reviews. Thanks!
becomebetty says
Hey Tamie! I think I did take a picture, I'm just not sure it was one of my better pictures, but if you find it helpful I'll find the file and add it in. Thanks so much for that feedback!
Dag says
Yup. Not thrilled with all the squash items. Unfortunately never liked squash.....must be the name. ..sssssqqqqqquuuuuaaaaaassssshhhhhh.
Diane Herman says
I just finished cooking up mine. I started it in the microwave and finished it in the over to make the top crispy. The first few bites were great until I realized I was just eating cheese and bread crumbs. The actual veggie part was awful. What were the green parts? I thought maybe zucchini but it wasn’t on the ingredient list. I would never buy these again.