How to Cook Spaghetti Squash
Unlock the secret to perfectly roasted spaghetti squash with this easy, foolproof recipe! Learn how to transform a humble spaghetti squash into golden, tender strands with just a handful of simple ingredients—olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This gluten-free, low-carb favorite is prepped in just 10 minutes and roasted in under an hour, making it a versatile base for countless dishes. From the pro tip on softening stubborn squash to the satisfying fork scrape that reveals its noodle-like texture, every step is designed for ease and success. Serve it as a healthy pasta substitute, a side dish, or a veggie-packed meal on its own—your creativity is the only limit! Perfectly roasted spaghetti squash is the ultimate canvas for your favorite toppings and sauces.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 whole spaghetti squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Thoroughly wash the outside of the spaghetti squash under cool running water and pat it dry with a clean towel.
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. (Pro Tip: If the squash is too tough to cut, pierce it with a knife several times and microwave it for 3-4 minutes to slightly soften.)
Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each half using a spoon. Discard or save the seeds for roasting later if desired.
Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt and black pepper.
Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. The edges may slightly caramelize for added flavor.
Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes until safe to handle.
Using a fork, gently scrape the flesh of the squash to create spaghetti-like strands. Transfer the strands to a serving dish or bowl.
Serve as-is or pair with your favorite sauce, herbs, or toppings. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
617 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 42.0 g | 54% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.5 g | 48% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 20 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 2560 mg | 111% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 63.0 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.1 g | 50% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.5 g | ||
| Protein | 6.6 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 213 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 3.5 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 1147 mg | 24% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
