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How to Cook Spaghetti Squash Recipe

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash Recipe

5.1 from 30 reviews

Learn how to cook spaghetti squash perfectly roasted in the oven to create a tender, noodle-like vegetable side dish that’s both healthy and delicious. This simple recipe highlights the natural flavors of spaghetti squash enhanced with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a versatile low-carb alternative to pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 spaghetti squash (1.5 to 3 lbs)
  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (divided, plus more to serve)
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt (divided, or added to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (divided, added to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare squash: Preheat your oven to 400˚F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up. Rinse and dry the spaghetti squash thoroughly. Carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise. The skin is tough, so take your time and consider placing the squash on a towel to prevent it from rolling while cutting.
  2. Remove seeds: Use a spoon to scrape out and discard the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each half.
  3. Season squash: Brush the inside of each half with 1/2 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle each half lightly with approximately 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to season.
  4. Bake the squash: Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake at 400˚F until the flesh is fork tender. Baking times vary by size—smaller squash may take about 35-40 minutes, while larger ones can take up to 50-60 minutes.
  5. Fluff the strands: Remove the squash from the oven and carefully flip cut-side up. Once cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh, creating spaghetti-like strands by fluffing and pulling the flesh away from the skin.
  6. Serve: Drizzle with additional extra virgin olive oil and season with more salt and pepper to taste. Serve as a healthy vegetable side dish or a low-carb pasta alternative.

Notes

  • Use a sharp, heavy knife to safely cut the squash and work slowly to avoid injury.
  • Spaghetti squash sizes vary, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, or fresh herbs after baking.
  • Leftover cooked spaghetti squash can be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • This dish is naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and vegan-friendly.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti squash, roasted spaghetti squash, vegetable side dish, healthy pasta alternative, gluten free, low carb, vegan side