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How to Cook Spaghetti Squash (The Best Way) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 45 reviews
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A simple, delicious method to cook spaghetti squash by roasting it in rings. This technique results in flavorful, tender strands that resemble spaghetti noodles, perfect for a healthy low-carb alternative to pasta. The recipe includes tips for seasoning and alternative cooking methods.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large spaghetti squash
  • 1-2 teaspoons olive oil
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for roasting the squash.
  2. Prepare Squash: Slice off the ends of the spaghetti squash. Then cut the squash widthwise into rings about 1½ inches thick to ensure even cooking.
  3. Remove Seeds: Use a spoon, preferably a grapefruit spoon, to scoop out and discard the seeds from each ring.
  4. Season Squash: Place the rings on a rimmed baking sheet. Use your hands to coat each ring with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Bake Squash: Roast the rings in the oven on the baking sheet for 30-40 minutes. Flip the rings halfway through cooking at about 15 minutes to ensure even roasting.
  6. Cool and Shred: Remove the squash from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. Once cooled, peel away the skin and use a fork to separate the flesh into long, spaghetti-like strands.

Notes

  • Roasting Whole: Prick holes in the whole squash and roast at 375°F for about 1 hour 20 minutes, flipping halfway. This method yields steamed, wetter strands.
  • Cut Lengthwise and Roast: Slice squash lengthwise, scoop seeds, drizzle with oil, salt, and pepper, roasting cut-side down at 400°F for 45 minutes. Results in shorter, wetter strands, ideal for spaghetti squash bowls.
  • Microwave Method: Slice squash in half, scoop seeds, place cut side down in dish with 1 inch water, microwave on high 10-12 minutes. Produces watery spaghetti strands with less flavor.
  • Instant Pot Method: Use an Instant Pot for faster cooking; refer to specialized recipes for detailed instructions.