Español Grow This

Spaghetti Squash

Learn how to bake or microwave spaghetti squash, then top with your favorite sauces or seasonings!
Spaghetti squash strands served with red sauce and grated parmesan cheese.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Makes: 4 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 whole spaghetti squash, rinsed under running water
Topping ingredients as you choose

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. Rinse or scrub fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.
  3. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, crosswise or in 1-inch rings. If squash is too tough to cut, microwave or bake for a few minutes until squash is warm to the touch and soft enough to cut.
  4. Remove seeds and stringy fibers with a spoon.
  5. Cook squash. The squash flesh should be easily pierced by a fork when done.
    Microwave (shortest cooking time). Place squash cut side down on a microwave-safe dish with 1 to 2 tablespoons water. Cook on HIGH for about 12 minutes for a medium sized squash.  Time will vary depending on size of squash and power of the microwave.  Squash is done when the shell can be pierced with a fork and the flesh separates into strands.
    Bake in the oven. Choose a baking temperature between 350 to 425 degrees F. Line a baking dish with foil for easier clean up.
    -  For a “roasted” flavor, rub cut edges with a little vegetable oil (optional), place cut side down in the pan and bake uncovered.
    -  For a “steamed” texture, add ½ cup water to the pan and cover with foil.
    Check for doneness after about 40 minutes.  Larger squash and lower oven temperatures may take longer to cook. Squash is done when the shell can be pierced with a fork and the flesh separates into strands.
  6. Let sit for 10 minutes or until squash is cool enough to handle. Use a fork to gently scrape the inside of the squash to make spaghetti-like strands.
  7. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Season the squash with a little salt and pepper or try nutmeg, onion or garlic powder.
  • Top with your favorite pasta sauce. Try our Quick Tomato Pasta Sauce.
  • Try sautéed mushrooms, onions or other veggies.
  • Add a sprinkling of cheese.
  • Include beans, tofu, cooked chicken, or cooked meat to make a one dish meal.

Comments

Submitted by Killer Tomato on Mon, 07/08/2019 - 10:32

The first time I made this for the family they were skeptical -- but now they love it!

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Overnight Oats for One
Ceramic bowl with creamy oatmeal topped with raspberries and blueberries.

Overnight Oats for One

Quick and easy make-ahead breakfast recipe for one person. Change it up with your favorite yogurt and fruit.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
1 serving
Baked Bananas with Pecans
Baked banana halves with raisins and a pecan topping.

Baked Bananas with Pecans

Baked bananas are a sweet and simple dessert with plenty of nutrients. A fun recipe for kids to make!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
6 Bananas
Hummus (with tahini)
Hummus garnished with parsley served with carrot sticks, celery and radishes.

Hummus (with tahini)

Homemade hummus dip blends garbanzo beans with lemon, garlic and tahini. Perfect for dipping veggies or pita!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
1 Cup
Whole-Wheat Spiced Pear Bread
Platter with slices of golden brown pear bread.

Whole-Wheat Spiced Pear Bread

The delicate taste of pear shines through in this lightly spiced and moist quick bread. Enjoy with breakfast or as a snack.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
50 minutes
Makes:
1 loaf (16 slices)
Crustless Pumpkin Pie
Moist slice of pumpkin pie.

Crustless Pumpkin Pie

Easy one-bowl treat that is creamy, sweet and full of fall spice.
Prepare:
0
Cook:
1 hour
Makes:
8 Slices
Baked Tofu
Marinated tofu cubes are baked and combined with stir-fry vegetables and shown over bowls of brown rice.

Baked Tofu

Choose your marinade for a simple and delicious way to prep baked tofu.
Prepare:
1 hour
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
3 Cups