9 Creative Ways to Prepare Spaghetti Squash—Including Roasting, Sautéing, and More

Spaghetti squash has captured the internet's attention—and rightly so. Though its exterior may seem like any other squash, its interior, when cooked and shredded, transforms into noodle-like strands. With a delicate, slightly sweet flavor and a texture akin to angel hair pasta, it offers an ideal base for countless culinary creations.

Mastering the art of cooking spaghetti squash can offer a healthier alternative for pasta enthusiasts. Try it with a classic Bolognese, mix it with pesto, or even swap it for rice noodles in pad Thai; the possibilities are endless!

How to Prepare Spaghetti Squash for Cooking

There are numerous ways to cook spaghetti squash, but the prep work is largely the same for all methods. Here's how to get your squash ready for cooking. (Keep in mind that some techniques may require you to leave the squash whole.)

1. Clean the outside of the squash to make sure it's free from dirt.
2. If the squash is especially firm, microwave it for 2 to 3 minutes to soften the outer skin slightly, making it easier to slice.
3. Place the squash on a firm surface. If needed, trim a small piece from the bottom to create a stable base, making it safer to cut.
4. Use a sharp knife to carefully begin cutting into the squash. Be cautious as you press the knife down onto the cutting board, and continue pressing until it cracks open.
5. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon. (Don't discard them—you can roast spaghetti squash seeds just like you would pumpkin seeds!)
6. Once the seeds are removed, use a spoon to gently scrape away any stringy pulp left on the flesh.

How to Roast Spaghetti Squash in the Oven

Roasting squash halves in a preheated oven with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt brings out a rich caramelized flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the squash. This method takes about an hour, so be sure to factor in the time when planning your meal.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
2. Drizzle olive oil on each half and season with salt.
3. Place the squash, cut-side down, on a baking sheet and roast for 45 to 50 minutes, or until tender.
4. Use a fork to scrape out the "spaghetti" strands.

How to Microwave Spaghetti Squash

When you're in a rush, the microwave can be a real lifesaver for cooking spaghetti squash. While it won't give you the same roasted flavor as baking, it can get the job done in a fraction of the time—sometimes, that's all you need!

1. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
2. Place the squash, cut side down, in a microwave-safe baking dish (a 9x13 dish works well).
3. Fill the dish with water until it completely covers the squash's bottom.
4. Microwave on high for 15 minutes, or until the squash softens.
5. Once done, use a fork to scrape out the 'spaghetti' strands.

Instructions for Steaming Spaghetti Squash

Steaming spaghetti squash is a quick method to cook it, but just like using a microwave, it won't bring out the same caramelized flavor. Here's how to prepare it:

1. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. (You might need to chop it into smaller pieces to fit in your steamer basket.)
2. Place the squash pieces, cut side down, in your steamer basket.
3. Steam for 20 minutes or until a knife easily slides into the squash.
4. Once done, use a fork to pull apart the "spaghetti" strands.

How to Prepare Spaghetti Squash in the Instant Pot

We love using the Instant Pot for effortless, foolproof cooking, and spaghetti squash turns out perfectly when cooked in this popular appliance. If you're after simplicity, this method is your go-to: just set the machine, step away for 10 minutes, and it's good to go.

1. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
2. Using a fork, prick the skin of each half down the center several times.
3. Place a steam rack or trivet in the Instant Pot, then add 1 cup of water.
4. Place the squash halves cut-side down and close the lid. Set the steam valve to "sealing."
5. Choose the pressure-cook setting on high and set the timer for 10 minutes.
6. Once the timer goes off, use the "Quick Release" method to release the steam and open the lid.
7. Using tongs, gently remove the squash from the Instant Pot.
8. Use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands resembling spaghetti.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Air Fryer

By circulating hot air, the popular air fryer guarantees your spaghetti squash will be perfectly al dente without being soggy. Even better, it takes only 20 minutes to cook the entire squash!

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F.
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
3. Drizzle olive oil on each half and sprinkle with salt.
4. Place the squash halves in the air fryer basket with the cut side facing up.
5. Cook for 20 minutes or until they are tender.
6. Carefully transfer the squash halves to a dish using tongs.
7. Use a fork to scrape out the "spaghetti" strands.

How to Grill Spaghetti Squash

Grilling spaghetti squash might seem unconventional, but we love this method for the smoky, charred taste it imparts, which perfectly balances the squash's natural sweetness.

1. Preheat the grill to 350°F, using indirect heat.
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Drizzle olive oil over each half and sprinkle with salt.
4. Place the squash halves, cut-side up, over indirect heat on the grill.
5. Cover the grill and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, or until tender.
6. Carefully transfer the squash halves to a dish using tongs.
7. Use a fork to scrape out the "spaghetti" strands.

How to Boil Spaghetti Squash on the Stove

Take a traditional approach and boil your squash whole on the stovetop. This method will make slicing the squash in half much easier (and safer!) as the skin and flesh soften while boiling.

1. Place the squash into a large pot and add enough water to cover it by a few inches.
2. Season the water with salt to enhance the flavor of the squash.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 30 minutes, or until the squash becomes tender. (You may need to rotate the squash occasionally for even cooking.)
4. Drain the pot in a colander and let the squash cool slightly. Afterward, cut it in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
5. Use a fork to scrape out the "spaghetti" strands.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Slow Cooker

You can also cook your squash whole in a slow cooker. While this method is slow (as the name suggests), the squash will become wonderfully tender and delicious.

1. Place the uncut spaghetti squash into the slow cooker with about 1 cup of water.
2. Cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours, until the squash is tender.
3. Cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
4. Allow the squash to cool slightly before using a fork to scrape the flesh into strands.

How to Sauté Spaghetti Squash

Once you've cooked your squash and have your "spaghetti," you may want to sauté it to infuse it with flavor for an easy standalone dish (or warm them up if you cooked the squash in advance). If you're a meal prepper, try any of the above methods for cooking spaghetti squash, then bring your leftovers to life with a quick sauté.

Over medium heat, sautéing the strands will take a minute or two max. The point isn’t to cook them any further. Here's how to just give them a little life.

1. Heat some olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add aromatics, like a few cloves of crushed garlic, and spices, such as a pinch of red pepper flakes.
3. Once fragrant, add the squash strands, tossing them until they're coated and heated through. (This step will only take a minute or two.)
4. Season the squash with salt and pepper, and then serve it!

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I know when the spaghetti squash is ready?

  To check if your spaghetti squash is fully cooked, inspect the skin. It should be slightly softened but still firm to the touch. Then, use a fork to gently fluff the inside, scraping the flesh from the skin. If the squash separates easily into strands, it’s ready to eat. Keep in mind that spaghetti squash is similar to pasta—the strands can become mushy if overcooked. After a little practice, you’ll find the perfect cooking time.

• Do I need to peel squash before baking?

  For most squash varieties, including spaghetti squash, you can cook it with the skin on. Once it's baked, simply scoop out the flesh. However, if your recipe calls for diced squash, you might want to peel it first.

• How can I add flavor to cooked spaghetti squash?

  Depending on your cooking method, you can season the squash either before or after cooking. For example, brush it with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle your choice of spices, salt, pepper, or herbs before baking. If you’re boiling it, it's better to add the seasonings afterward, so the squash can absorb all the flavors.