10 Spaghetti Squash Recipes That Will Seriously Upgrade Your Meal Game

I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Ready to take your pasta game to the next level without the guilt? Meet spaghetti squash, your new best friend. This magical veggie can mimic the texture of spaghetti but with fewer carbs and more nutrients. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy casseroles or flavorful stir-fries, spaghetti squash brings a whole new twist to your dinner table.

Why settle for regular noodles when spaghetti squash offers a delicious and healthy alternative? You’ll find that it pairs wonderfully with so many different flavors and ingredients. From robust meats to fresh veggies, there’s something for everyone. Dive in and explore how this versatile squash can transform your favorite dishes into something truly special.

1) Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Craving a low-carb pasta alternative? Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash is your new best friend. It’s tasty, healthy, and easy to make.

First, you’ll need to roast the squash. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and brush with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and place cut side down on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for about 40 minutes until tender.

While the squash is baking, warm some olive oil in a pan. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. This should take about a minute. You can add a bit of vegetable broth to give extra flavor.

Once the squash is ready, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands. Toss these squash noodles in the pan with the garlic and olive oil. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until it’s all melty and delicious.

Optional: You can broil the squash halves for a few minutes. This step gives a nice crispy top. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top to make it even cheesier.

Serve it hot, and enjoy every bite. This dish is perfect for dinner when you’re craving something both comforting and light.

2) Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai

Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai is a healthy twist on a classic dish. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a lighter, veggie-packed meal. This recipe swaps out traditional noodles for spaghetti squash, giving you all the flavors without the carbs.

First, preheat your oven to 400ºF. Slice your squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Microwave for a few minutes to soften if necessary. Brush with oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and bake for about 45 minutes.

While the squash is cooking, heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic, green onions, red bell pepper, and carrots until they’re tender and fragrant.

Once your squash is ready, scrape out the “noodles” with a fork. Add them to the skillet with the veggies. Toss everything together with a bit of kosher salt.

For the sauce, mix water and cornstarch until smooth. Simmer the mixture until it thickens. Pour it over the squash mix and make sure everything is well-coated.

Top with cilantro and bean sprouts for a fresh, crunchy finish. Enjoy this guilt-free Pad Thai that’s full of flavor!

3) Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

You won’t believe how easy and tasty Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is! First, cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Bake it until tender or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

While your squash is cooking, fry up some bacon until it’s crispy. Save a bit of the bacon fat for extra flavor.

Mix eggs and cheese in a small bowl. Once your squash is ready, use a fork to shred it into “noodles.” Toss these noodles with your egg mixture, bacon, and seasoning.

For a final touch, add some garlic and peas if you like. Stir everything over low heat until it thickens and becomes creamy. Enjoy!

4) Creamy Spinach Artichoke Spaghetti Squash

Looking for a comfort food that’s also healthy? This creamy spinach artichoke spaghetti squash is a dream.

First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.

Brush the insides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast cut-side down for about an hour.

While the squash is cooking, sauté spinach and artichokes until the spinach wilts.

Mix in cream cheese for a touch of richness, then combine with the cooked squash strands.

Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan and broil until bubbly and golden. Enjoy!

5) Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti Squash

Get ready to spice things up with Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti Squash. This recipe is the perfect mix of spicy and wholesome. Start by cooking your spaghetti squash until tender.

Next, mix in shredded chicken with your favorite Buffalo sauce.

Don’t forget the cheesy goodness! Stir in some blue cheese crumbles or shredded cheese.

Pour everything into a greased baking dish. Bake at 400°F until bubbly and golden brown.

This dish brings big flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for a cozy night in!

6) Spaghetti Squash Primavera

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab your spaghetti squash and slice it in half lengthwise—yes, it can be tough, but you’ve got this.

Scoop out those pesky seeds.

Brush the insides with a little olive oil, then sprinkle with salt. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30 to 45 minutes until they’re tender and easy to shred.

While your squash is baking, heat some olive oil in a skillet. Toss in chopped onions and cook until they’re soft. Add garlic for extra flavor, stirring for another minute.

Chop your veggies like zucchini, red onion, celery, carrots, and bell peppers. Add them to the skillet and cook until they’re just right—tender but still a bit crisp.

Need to zest it up? Add marinara sauce and let it simmer. This really brings everything together.

Once your squash is ready, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Mix the strands into your skillet with all those amazing veggies.

Finally, sprinkle with Pecorino Romano cheese and give it a good stir. Marvel at your colorful, delicious Spaghetti Squash Primavera.

7) Pesto Spaghetti Squash with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This recipe is super easy and so yummy!

First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice your spaghetti squash lengthwise and remove the seeds.

Spray with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Place the squash halves cut side down on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 40 minutes.

While it bakes, prepare your pesto by blending basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to pull apart the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.

Heat some oil in a skillet and cook mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes until tender. Add fresh basil and spinach in the last 30 seconds.

Then, toss your spaghetti squash in the fresh pesto.

Top with the sautéed mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes. Serve immediately and enjoy!

8) Baked Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Boats

Hungry for something new? Try these Baked Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Boats!

First, slice your spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds.

Roast the squash in the oven until tender and easy to shred with a fork.

Make your meat mixture with sausage, onion, and garlic in a skillet.

Once your squash is ready, scrape out the “spaghetti” and mix with marinara sauce.

Fill each squash shell with the mixture and top with mozzarella cheese.

Bake until the cheese is bubbly and browned.

Done! Enjoy your fun and tasty lasagna in a squash boat!

9) Spaghetti Squash with Tomato Basil Sauce

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Slice your spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake for 40-50 minutes until tender. While the squash is in the oven, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook until fragrant. Throw in some minced garlic and stir it around for about a minute.

Pour in canned tomatoes and bring it to a simmer. Let this mix cook until it thickens, around 15 minutes.

Stir in fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the strands.

Top with your homemade tomato basil sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also a fun twist on traditional pasta. Enjoy the light, fresh flavors!

10) Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

Hey foodies! Ready to turn your spaghetti squash into something magical? Let’s talk about Spaghetti Squash Alfredo.

First, cut your spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Drizzle the inside with olive oil and place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.

Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the squash for about an hour until it’s fork-tender. While it’s roasting, prep the Alfredo sauce. You’ll need butter, all-purpose flour, whole milk, and Parmesan cheese. Melt the butter, whisk in flour, and slowly add the milk.

Stir continuously to make a thick, creamy sauce. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth and melted. Once the squash is ready, use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands.

Heat a pan with a little water or oil. Add the spaghetti squash strands and season with salt, Italian herbs, garlic powder, and optional red pepper flakes.

Cook for a few minutes until the squash is browned and hot. Then, add your homemade Alfredo sauce and toss everything together until well-coated.

Voilà! Delicious Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is ready to enjoy. Buon appetito!

Nutritional Benefits of Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash is packed with nutrients and can be a great addition to your diet. It’s low in calories, rich in vitamins and minerals, and helpful for weight management.

Low-Calorie Alternative

If you’re looking for a food that’s low in calories but still satisfying, spaghetti squash is a winner.

One cup of cooked spaghetti squash only has 42 calories. Compared to the 239 calories in a cup of cooked pasta, that’s a huge difference. This means you can enjoy larger portions without the extra calories.

Perfect for pasta lovers who want to cut back on calories while still enjoying a delicious meal.

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Spaghetti squash is full of essential nutrients that your body needs.

• Vitamin C: Great for your immune system and skin health.
• Vitamin B6: Helps with brain health and mood regulation.
• Beta-carotene: Converted into vitamin A in the body, important for eyesight.
• Potassium: Helps maintain proper muscle function and heart health.

Including spaghetti squash in your meals can help you get these important vitamins and minerals.

Supports Weight Loss

Eating spaghetti squash can help with weight loss for several reasons.

First, it’s low in calories, so you can eat more without gaining weight.

Second, it’s high in fiber. One cup has 2.2 grams of fiber, which helps you feel full longer and aids digestion. This can prevent overeating and keep your digestive system running smoothly.

Third, replacing high-carb foods like pasta with spaghetti squash can reduce your overall calorie intake.

Incorporate it into your meals for a delicious way to support your weight loss goals.

Creative Ways to Cook Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash is a versatile vegetable that can be transformed into delicious dishes using various cooking methods. Discover new ways to enjoy this healthy and tasty ingredient.

Oven-Baked Perfection

Oven-baking is a popular method for cooking spaghetti squash. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Cut the squash lengthwise and remove the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash easily flakes with a fork.

Try adding toppings like marinara sauce or pesto for extra flavor. You can even top it with cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted.

Microwave for Quick Meals

Don’t have time for the oven? The microwave is your friend! Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, and place it cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish with some water. Cover with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid.

Microwave on high for 8-12 minutes, checking at the 8-minute mark for doneness. The squash should be tender and easy to scrape into strands.

Finish with your favorite quick sauce or seasonings, like garlic and Parmesan, for a speedy meal.

Instant Pot Magic

The Instant Pot brings speed and convenience. Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds. Add a cup of water to the Instant Pot and place the squash on the trivet. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.

Select Manual/Pressure Cook and set the time for 7 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release. Carefully remove the squash and scrape into strands.

Mix with sautéed vegetables, pasta sauce, or even alfredo for a comforting dish in no time!