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)

Zucchini Tomato Bake
Baking dish with layers of zucchini rounds coated with tomatoes and cheese.

Zucchini Tomato Bake

Warm and flavorful vegetable bake topped with creamy cheese.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
7 cups
Black-Eyed Peas and Quinoa Salad
Bowl of Black-Eyed Peas and Quinoa Salad.

Black-Eyed Peas and Quinoa Salad

Enjoy this main dish or side salad that is full of flavor, color, texture and nutrients.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
7 cups
Master Mix
Glass jar labeled Master Mix with a flour-based baking mix.

Master Mix

Make your own baking mix to have on hand for quick biscuits, pancakes and other recipes.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
10 cups
Fruit Pizza
Cream cheese spread on English muffins with a fresh fruit topping.

Fruit Pizza

A healthy snack or treat, that kids will love to help make and eat!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
2 Servings
Kale and White Bean Soup
Bowl of soup with a tomato base, kale and beans

Kale and White Bean Soup

A warm and filling soup made with beans, greens and Italian flavors.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
5 Cups
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)