Skip to main content

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

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)

Spring Green Salad
Bowls of spinach salad topped with strawberries and orange slices.

Spring Green Salad

A colorful and tasty salad with crisp spinach, tangy citrus, sweet strawberries and crunchy walnuts.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
10 cups
Pasta Salad
Macaroni noodles with ham, vegetables and dressing.

Pasta Salad

Hearty pasta, fresh veggies, salty ham and creamy cheese come together for a great summer side dish.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Raspberry Oatmeal Bars
Plate of square red oatmeal and raspberry bars.

Raspberry Oatmeal Bars

Sweet-tart raspberries, whole grain oats and a buttery crust make the perfect breakfast or on-the-go snack.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
12 Bars (2 inches x 2.5 inches)
Stovetop Farro
Bowls of cooked farro.

Stovetop Farro

A slightly nutty-tasting grain with a tender chewy texture packed with nutrients.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
35 to 45 minutes
Makes:
2 ½ cups
Strawberry Salsa
Bowl of bright green and red Strawberry Salsa served with tortilla chips.

Strawberry Salsa

A colorful salsa with sweet strawberries, tangy citrus and a little bit of spice!
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Plant Part Salad
Wooden bowl filled with a variety of raw vegetables.

Plant Part Salad

Prepare:
15 to 20 minutes
Makes:
12 cups
Was this page helpful to you?
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.