How to Cook Spaghetti Squash

Learn how to cook spaghetti squash in the microwave (the right way!). Microwaving is my faster, mess-free method for cooking perfectly tender spaghetti squash every time.

I love spaghetti squash on its own and it’s a great low-carb substitute for pasta. Cooking it in the microwave is mess-free and super easy! Plus, it leaves my oven free to make baked meatballs to serve over top.

Learning how to cook spaghetti squash in the microwave is one of my favorite kitchen hacks. As someone who’s constantly wearing many hats, I love a good shortcut. Using your microwave to cook spaghetti squash results in a faster cooking time and longer strands. Tried and true. IMHO! If you’ve never tried spaghetti squash before, or if you’re used to roasting it, you’ll love this easy microwave recipe.

Reasons to Love Spaghetti Squash

• A veggie-packed alternative to pasta. They don’t call it “spaghetti” squash for nothing! Once cooked, the flesh inside a spaghetti squash can be flaked/shredded into long, noodle-like strands (thus the name). The difference here is that squash is low in carbs and 100% veggie!
• It goes with EVERYTHING! Spaghetti squash has a mild taste and takes on the flavor of any pasta sauce you pair it with. I’ll serve it with everything from Bolognese to Alfredo sauce, just like traditional spaghetti. This squash is also delicious stuffed, zucchini boat style.
• It cooks quickly in the microwave. This microwave method is by far one of the fastest and easiest ways to cook spaghetti squash that I’ve tried. If you’re a fan of squash and cook it all the time like I do, you need this cooking method in your life! And if the oven is more your thing, I have you covered with baking directions, too.

What You’ll Need

The only ingredient you need for this tutorial is (you guessed it) spaghetti squash! Choose a squash that’s free of spots and blemishes, without any cracks. 

You’ll also need a microwave-safe baking dish that fits inside your microwave, and a bit of water so the squash can steam. Before you cook the squash, you’ll want to wash, dry, and halve it. See below.

How to Cut Your Squash In Half

I’ve tried the method where you simply poke the skin and microwave the squash whole, but I find that I get better results when I halve the squash first. 

While spaghetti squash can be tricky to cut due to its thick walls and hard skin, a sharp chef’s knife makes it easier. You’ll also want to use a non-slip cutting board. Here’s how to slice a spaghetti squash in half:

1. Lay the squash horizontally on the cutting board. 
2. Hold the squash firmly in place with one hand. With your other hand, use the knife to trim off the top and bottom ends of the squash. Keep your supporting hand as far from the knife as possible.
3. Next, turn the squash upright on the cutting board, making sure it’s stable. Starting at the top, slice the squash downward, cutting it in half lengthwise. Tada! Always be careful and seek extra help if you need it.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Microwave

In my experience, microwaving spaghetti squash this way yields perfectly cooked squash and longer strands when serving. Winning! Follow the steps here:

• Prep the squash. Rinse the outside of the squash and dry it well. Then, follow the directions above to slice it lengthwise down the middle. Use a spoon to scrape out any seeds.
• Assemble. Place your squash halves cut-side down in about 1” of water inside a 9×13” baking dish.
• Cook. Microwave the squash for 15-20 minutes, until it’s soft enough to pierce with a fork. Afterward, let it rest a beat before you shred it.
• Shred. Use a fork to shred the spaghetti squash flesh into long, thin strands. Alternatively, you can fill the squash with something delicious. See the section further on for serving ideas!

Spaghetti Squash Serving Suggestions

You’ll see, spaghetti squash’s long, thin strands make it a great alternative to real spaghetti. I’ll serve it with homemade Bolognese sauce for spaghetti squash Bolognese, or dress it with pesto, like in my basil pesto spaghetti squash pasta. Spaghetti squash is also delicious with classic Italiano-style slow cooker spaghetti sauce and a topping of freshly grated parmesan and veggie meatballs.

Another easy way to serve spaghetti squash is to stuff it. Get creative with fillings like ground meat, veggies, rice, or other grains. Try these Mediterranean squash boats for inspiration!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigerate. Store spaghetti squash airtight in the fridge for up to 4 days. I like to use leftover spaghetti squash to make squash fritters!
• Reheat. To reheat the squash, warm it in the microwave again or you can sautée it in a skillet before adding your choice of sauce.

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