How To Cook Spaghetti Squash At Home

If you have ever picked up a spaghetti squash at the store and thought, “Now what?”, you are not alone. The first time I bought one, it sat on my counter for a week because I had no idea how to cook it. When I finally tried it, I was surprised by how simple and fun it was. The golden strands really do look like pasta, and you can use them in so many cozy, comforting meals.

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In this guide, we will walk through how to cook spaghetti squash in different ways, from the oven to the Instant Pot, air fryer, crockpot, and more. We will also talk about how long to cook it, how to freeze it, and even how to prepare it for a baby.

I will keep everything very simple and clear, with easy steps, basic ingredients, and helpful tips. By the end, you will know exactly how to cook spaghetti squash in a way that fits your kitchen and your schedule.

Quick Glance At The Methods

Here is a simple table so you can quickly see all the main ways to cook spaghetti squash and what makes each one special.

Now let’s go through each topic step by step.

How To Cook Spaghetti Squash (Basic Overview)

At its core, cooking spaghetti squash is simple. You heat the squash until the flesh turns tender, then pull it into strands with a fork. That is it.

Basic ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or any neutral cooking oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste (optional)

Basic steps

• Wash the squash
• Rinse the outside and dry it with a towel.
• This keeps dirt and grit out of your food when you cut it.

• Cut the squash
• Place it on a stable cutting board.
• Use a sharp, heavy knife and carefully cut it from top to bottom.
• Scoop out the seeds and stringy center with a spoon.

• Season the inside
• Rub the cut sides with oil.
• Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

• Cook with your chosen method
• Oven, Instant Pot, air fryer, crockpot, or whole.
• Use the time guide in the later section.

• Shred into strands
• Once tender, let it cool a bit.
• Use a fork to scrape the flesh from the sides.
• You will see it turn into spaghetti-like strands.

• Serve or use in recipes
• Enjoy with sauce, butter and garlic, or in casseroles and bowls.

Once you understand this base idea, every method below will feel easier.

How To Cook Spaghetti Squash In Oven

The oven method is the classic and my personal favorite. It gives the squash a sweet, roasty flavor and a nice texture.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or paprika

Steps

• Preheat the oven
• Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Prepare the squash
• Wash, dry, and cut the squash in half lengthwise.
• Scoop out seeds and stringy bits.

• Season the halves
• Drizzle or brush the inside with olive oil.
• Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any extra seasonings you like.
• Tip: A little garlic powder adds great flavor.

• Arrange on baking sheet
• Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil.
• This helps trap steam and makes the flesh tender.

• Bake until tender
• Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, depending on size.
• The squash is ready when a fork goes in easily and the strands pull apart.

• Cool and shred
• Let the halves cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Flip them over and use a fork to scrape from the edges to the center.
• You will get long, pretty strands.

• Serve
• Enjoy with sauce, parmesan, or your favorite toppings.

How To Cook Spaghetti Squash Quickly

Sometimes you want spaghetti squash, but you do not want to wait forever. Here are fast ways to get it on the table.

Quick method options

• Microwave method

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 tablespoon water
• Salt and pepper after cooking (optional)

Steps

• Pierce the squash several times with a fork or knife so steam can escape.
• Place the whole squash on a microwave-safe plate.
• Microwave on high for 3–5 minutes to soften it slightly.
• Carefully remove it, cut it in half, and scoop out seeds.
• Place the halves cut side down in a microwave-safe dish with 1 tablespoon of water.
• Microwave for 10–12 minutes, checking halfway.
• When tender, let it cool, then shred.

• Instant Pot or pressure cooker
• This is covered in detail in the next section but is also a very fast method, usually around 7–10 minutes under pressure.

• Air fryer halves
• Air fryer roasting is faster than the oven and still gives nice flavor.
• See the full air fryer steps further below.

If you need the fastest route with the least dishes, the microwave method plus a little seasoning at the end works very well.

How To Cook Spaghetti Squash Instant Pot

Using an Instant Pot or any pressure cooker is a great way to save time. The squash cooks quickly and stays moist.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper after cooking (optional)

Steps

• Prepare the squash
• You can cook it whole or cut in half.
• If cutting in half, slice lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.

• Add water to Instant Pot
• Pour 1 cup of water into the pot.
• Place the metal trivet or a steamer basket inside.

• Place squash in the pot
• For halves: Set them on the trivet, cut side up or down.
• For whole: Place the whole squash on the trivet.
• Pierce the whole squash several times with a fork if cooking whole.

• Pressure cook
• Seal the lid and set the valve to sealing.
• Cook on High Pressure:
• Halves: 7–9 minutes
• Whole: 12–15 minutes

• Quick release
• When the timer is done, carefully do a quick release of the pressure.
• Open the lid away from your face.

• Check for doneness
• Pierce the squash with a fork. It should be tender.
• If not, cook for 2–3 more minutes under pressure.

• Cool and shred
• Let it cool a bit.
• Cut open if cooked whole and remove seeds.
• Use a fork to pull the flesh into strands.

• Season and serve
• Toss with oil, butter, salt, pepper, or your favorite sauce.

How To Cook Spaghetti Squash Whole

Cutting raw spaghetti squash can feel tough. Cooking it whole first makes it much easier and safer.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• Water (for some methods)

Steps (Oven method whole)

• Preheat the oven
• Heat to 375°F (190°C).

• Pierce the squash
• Use a fork or sharp knife to poke holes all around the squash.
• This lets steam escape and prevents splitting.

• Place in baking dish
• Set the whole squash in a baking dish or on a baking sheet.

• Bake until soft
• Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on size.
• It is done when you can press the skin and it gives slightly, or a knife goes in easily.

• Cool and cut
• Let it cool until safe to handle.
• Cut lengthwise through the middle.
• Scoop out seeds and center strings.

• Shred
• Use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands.

Tip: You can also cook the squash whole in an Instant Pot following the steps in the earlier section.

How To Cook Spaghetti Squash In Crockpot

The crockpot or slow cooker is perfect for days when you want to start your food and forget about it for hours.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 cup water

Steps

• Wash and pierce
• Wash the squash and poke several holes with a fork.
• You can cook it whole or cut it in half and remove seeds first.

• Add water
• Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the crockpot.

• Place squash inside
• Set the whole squash or the halves (cut side up) inside the crockpot.

• Slow cook
• Cook on High for 3–4 hours or Low for 5–6 hours.

• Check for tenderness
• The squash is ready when a knife slides in easily.

• Cool and shred
• Remove the squash carefully. It will be hot and soft.
• Let it cool slightly.
• Cut open if cooked whole and remove seeds.
• Scrape with a fork to create strands.

• Season and serve
• Add salt, pepper, and any sauce you like right before serving.

This method is great for busy workdays. You come home and the squash is ready to go.

How To Cook Spaghetti Squash In An Air Fryer

If you love your air fryer, you can also use it for spaghetti squash. It cooks faster than the oven and gives nice roasted edges.

Ingredients

• 1 small to medium spaghetti squash (so it fits in the basket)
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

• Preheat the air fryer
• Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

• Prepare the squash
• Wash, dry, and cut the squash in half lengthwise.
• Scoop out the seeds.

• Season the halves
• Brush the insides with olive oil.
• Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

• Place in basket
• Arrange the halves cut side up in the air fryer basket.
• If they do not fit, cook one half at a time.

• Cook
• Air fry for 20–25 minutes.
• Check at 18–20 minutes. The squash is done when tender and the edges are lightly browned.

• Cool and shred
• Let the halves cool a bit.
• Use a fork to pull the strands away from the skin.

• Serve
• Toss with a little extra oil or butter and your favorite seasoning.

How To Cook And Freeze Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it once, freeze it, and use it later in quick meals.

Ingredients

• 1 or more spaghetti squash
• A little olive oil or butter when reheating (optional)

Steps: Cooking for freezing

• Choose a cooking method
• The oven, Instant Pot, or crockpot methods all work well.

• Cook until just tender
• You want the squash cooked but not mushy.
• Slightly firm strands freeze and reheat better.

• Cool completely
• After shredding, spread the strands on a baking sheet or large plate.
• Let them cool to room temperature.

• Drain extra moisture
• If the squash seems watery, place it in a colander for a few minutes.
• Too much liquid can lead to mushy squash after thawing.

• Portion into bags or containers
• Divide into meal-size portions.
• Place in freezer bags or containers.
• Press out extra air from bags, then seal.

• Label and freeze
• Label with the date.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months for best taste.

Steps: Reheating frozen spaghetti squash

• Take the portion from the freezer.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave to defrost.
• Reheat in a skillet with a little oil or butter over medium heat, or warm in the microwave.
• Add salt, pepper, and sauce or toppings.

How Long To Cook Spaghetti Squash

Cooking time depends on the size of the squash and the method you use. Here is a simple guide.

General time guide

• Oven (halved, 400°F / 200°C):
• Small: 30–35 minutes
• Medium: 35–45 minutes
• Large: 45–55 minutes

• Oven (whole, 375°F / 190°C):
• Medium: 45–60 minutes

• Instant Pot / Pressure cooker:
• Halves: 7–9 minutes on High Pressure
• Whole: 12–15 minutes on High Pressure

• Microwave (halved, with water):
• 10–12 minutes total, checking halfway

• Crockpot:
• High: 3–4 hours
• Low: 5–6 hours

• Air fryer (halved, 375°F / 190°C):
• 20–25 minutes

How to tell when it is done

• A fork slides in easily.
• The flesh pulls into strands when scraped with a fork.
• It should be tender, but not mushy like mashed potatoes.

If you are unsure, it is better to check a bit early and add more time if needed.

How To Cook Spaghetti Squash For Baby

Spaghetti squash can be a gentle and fun food for babies once they are ready for soft solids. Always check with your pediatrician for exact timing and safety for your baby.

Ingredients

• 1 small to medium spaghetti squash
• A little water, breast milk, or formula to thin (optional)

Steps

• Cook the squash until very soft
• Use the oven, Instant Pot, or crockpot methods.
• Make sure the flesh is very tender and easy to mash.

• Cool and shred
• Let the squash cool.
• Scrape the strands out with a fork.

• Adjust texture for age
• For younger babies (starting solids):
• Chop the strands into very small pieces or mash them.
• You can mix with a bit of water, breast milk, or formula to make it smoother.
• For older babies who can handle more texture:
• Leave the strands longer, but still soft.
• Cut them into short pieces to avoid long stringy bits.

• Keep it plain at first
• Serve plain cooked squash first to watch for any reaction.
• Later, you can mix it with soft cooked vegetables or a little mashed avocado.

• Serve safely
• Remove any seeds or hard bits.
• Make sure pieces are soft and easy to mash with your fingers.
• Always watch your baby while eating.

• Storage
• Store leftover baby portions in the fridge for 2–3 days.
• You can also freeze in small cubes or portions for later.

FAQs About Cooking Spaghetti Squash

How do I pick a good spaghetti squash?

Look for a firm squash with smooth skin and a bright yellow color. It should feel heavy for its size and have no soft spots or mold.

Do I have to peel spaghetti squash before cooking?

No. You cook it with the skin on and then scrape the strands from the inside. The skin is not eaten.

Why is my spaghetti squash watery?

It might be slightly overcooked or it may release more moisture while cooling. Try these tips:

• Cook a bit less time next round.
• Let the strands sit in a colander for a few minutes to drain.
• Sauté the strands in a skillet to cook off extra liquid.

Can I eat spaghetti squash seeds?

Yes, you can roast them like pumpkin seeds. Rinse, dry, toss with a little oil and salt, and roast at about 300°F (150°C) until lightly golden.

Is spaghetti squash low in calories?

Yes. It is usually lower in calories than regular pasta and has fiber along with vitamins. It is a nice option if you want a lighter meal.

What can I serve with spaghetti squash?

You can top it with:

• Tomato or vegetable sauce
• Garlic, olive oil, and herbs
• Cooked vegetables and cheese
• Simple butter and parmesan

Can I cook spaghetti squash ahead of time?

Yes. Cook, cool, and store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to about 3 months. Reheat as needed.

How do I keep spaghetti squash from getting mushy when reheated?

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil or butter. This helps cook off extra moisture and keeps the strands separate.

Is spaghetti squash safe for toddlers?

For most toddlers, yes, as long as it is soft, cut into small pieces, and served plain or with gentle seasonings. Always watch for any reaction and cut pieces to reduce choking risk.

Can I cook half a spaghetti squash and save the rest raw?

You can, but use the raw half within 2–3 days. Wrap it tightly and keep it in the fridge. It is usually easier to cook the whole squash and store cooked leftovers.

Conclusion

Learning how to cook spaghetti squash is one of those skills that feels a little scary at first but quickly turns into a kitchen habit. Whether you roast it in the oven, use the Instant Pot, let it simmer in the crockpot, try the air fryer, or cook it whole to avoid tough cutting, you now have several simple ways to get it right.

You also know how long to cook spaghetti squash, how to cook and freeze it for later, and how to make it soft and gentle enough for a baby. With just a bit of oil, salt, and heat, this humble squash turns into a bowl of golden strands you can twist on your fork like pasta.