Elf Movie-Inspired Spaghetti Squash Bites with Maple Aioli
If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie Elf, then you know Buddy’s love for syrup on spaghetti is unmatched. This recipe is inspired by Buddy’s sweet breakfast spaghetti but with a healthier, more appetizer-friendly twist! These Spaghetti Squash Bites capture the whimsy of the holiday season in a delicious, crispy bite, paired perfectly with a Maple Aioli dipping sauce for a hint of sweetness. They’re a crowd-pleaser and will be the talk of any holiday gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Elf-inspired bites are the ideal combination of healthy and festive. Oven-baked and gluten-free, they’re a wonderful way to incorporate veggies into your holiday spread while paying homage to a beloved Christmas classic. They’re crispy, easy to make, and great for kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re fun to serve alongside other holiday appetizers like my Hot Cocoa Protein Dip or a Ginger Apple Cider Fizz Mocktail.
Spaghetti Squash Bites Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Maple Aioli Recipe
- Follow this maple aioli recipe to create a sweet and tangy dipping sauce that pairs perfectly with these bites.
Instructions
Prepare the Oven Baked Spaghetti Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves face-up on a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 40 minutes or until tender.
Shred the Squash
Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to gently shred it into strands, creating the “spaghetti.”
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded spaghetti squash, beaten egg, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together when formed into balls.
Form the Bites
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon, scoop medium-sized balls of the spaghetti squash mixture onto the baking sheet. Flatten each ball gently with the back of a spoon to create small “patties.”
Bake the Bites
Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy around the edges. Let them cool slightly before serving with Maple Aioli.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Place any leftover bites in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 7 days.
- Reheating: To retain crispiness, reheat the bites in the oven or air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes. They’ll be just as delicious as when freshly baked!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Spaghetti Squash Bites with a festive holiday charcuterie board or a platter of my Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies and Chocolate Peppermint Energy Bites. With a variety of flavors, you’ll have a beautiful holiday spread that balances both sweet and savory treats.
For a full Elf movie marathon snack experience, I recommend adding my other Elf-Inspired favorite White Chocolate Pretzel & Peanut Stacks for a sweet, salty crunch alongside the savory bites.
Why Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is naturally low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for a holiday treat that’s light yet satisfying. This veggie is also packed with essential vitamins like vitamin C and B6, perfect for keeping you energized during the holiday season. It bakes up beautifully, providing a crispy texture that feels indulgent without any deep frying.
Elf Movie Magic in Every Bite
Creating fun, festive treats inspired by holiday classics is one of my favorite ways to celebrate. There’s something magical about bringing a little movie-inspired whimsy to the table, and I know this will be one of those recipes I return to every holiday season.
Watching Elf with my family, surrounded by the scents of a cozy kitchen, is a cherished tradition. These Spaghetti Squash Bites with Maple Aioli dip perfectly capture that spirit, giving us all a reason to slow down, enjoy good food, and make memories together.
Healthier Holiday Recipe Collection
These bites are just one way I’m bringing nutritious, balanced recipes to the holiday season! For more wholesome ideas that everyone will enjoy, check out these favorites:
- Roasted Blender Tomato Soup – A cozy option to warm up after a chilly holiday outing.
- Maple Roasted Carrots and Toasted Veggie Sandwich – Perfect for a quick, healthy holiday lunch.
- 6 Must Bake Holiday Cookies– For a complete selection of holiday treats to share with loved ones!
Elf Movie-Inspired Spaghetti Squash Bites with Maple Aioli
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 15 1x
Description
These Spaghetti Squash Bites capture the whimsy of the holiday season in a delicious, crispy bite, paired perfectly with a Maple Aioli dipping sauce for a hint of sweetness. They’re a crowd-pleaser and will be the talk of any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Place the squash halves face-up on a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until tender.
- Shred the Squash:
- Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to gently shred it into strands, creating the “spaghetti.”
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded spaghetti squash, beaten egg, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
- Stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together when formed into balls.
- Form the Bites:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a spoon, scoop medium-sized balls of the spaghetti squash mixture onto the baking sheet. Flatten each ball gently with the back of a spoon to create small “patties.”
- Bake the Bites:
- Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy around the edges.
- Let them cool slightly before serving with Maple Aioli.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
