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Learn how to oven roast spaghetti squash perfectly every time with this easy guide. Enjoy a healthy and delicious meal with this gluten-free and low-carb recipe.
Are you a fan of spaghetti squash but never quite sure how to cook it? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Baking spaghetti squash in the oven is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Not only is it a healthy alternative to pasta, but it's also a gluten-free and low-carb option. In this post, we'll guide you through the simple steps of roasting spaghetti squash in the oven, including frequently asked questions and tips for recipe success.
Spaghetti squash is a garden favorite on our farm because it's such a versatile vegetable and there are many different ways to prepare it. In this post, we're cooking spaghetti squash in the oven. It's my favorite way, and preferred method, to prepare a simple side dish for our family.
Why Oven Roasting Spaghetti Squash is the Best Way
Oven-roasting spaghetti squash is a great way to achieve a perfect texture and flavor. Roasting brings out the vegetable's natural sweetness and gives it a slightly caramelized flavor. It's also a low-maintenance cooking method that requires minimal preparation, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients Needed
- spaghetti squash
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
See the printable recipe card below for exact quantities.
Equipment Needed
How to Roast Spaghetti Squash
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut the ends off a whole spaghetti squash with a sharp chef's knife.
Then cut the whole squash in half lengthwise.
Remove the spaghetti squash seeds and pulp with a spoon.
Place the spaghetti squash on the parchment lined baking sheet.
Drizzle olive oil over the cut side of the squash and season with salt and pepper.
Place the spaghetti squash halves cut side down on the parchment paper lined baking sheet.
Roast for 35 to 40 minutes or until lightly browned on the outside and fork tender on the inside. If your squash is larger, it may require more roasting time.
Remove from the oven and flip the squash so that it's cut side up. When cool to the touch, use the tines of a fork to scrape and fluff the long strands from the squash.
Tips for Recipe Success
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise for even cooking.
- Before roasting, season the spaghetti squash with salt and pepper or your favorite herbs and spices.
- Place the spaghetti squash cut side down on a baking sheet to help it cook evenly.
- Use a fork to scrape the flesh out of the cooked spaghetti squash to create long spaghetti-like strands.
Spaghetti Squash Serving Suggestions
Toss with your favorite pasta sauce (such as spaghetti sauce or marinara sauce) and top with Parmesan cheese.
Use as a healthy alternative to pasta in your favorite Italian dishes.
Add roasted vegetables and your favorite protein (such as ground sausage or grilled chicken) for a delicious and healthy main dish.
More Side Dish Recipes You'll Love
- Persimmon Salad with Pomegranates
- Roasted Beet Salad
- Tomato, Corn, Cucumber and Avocado Salad
- Fall Kale Salad
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
FAQs
It typically takes 40-50 minutes at 400°F, but it can vary depending on the size of the squash.
The skin should be easy to pierce with a fork, and the flesh should be tender.
Yes! Roasted spaghetti squash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months.
If you give this recipe a try, please leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and don’t forget to tag me @homesweetfarmhome on Instagram and use the hashtag #homesweetfarmhome. I’d love to see what you come up with and share with our community. Cheers!
Recipe Card
How to Roast Spaghetti Squash in the Oven
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a chef's knife, cut the ends off the squash so that each end has a flat side.
- Next, you'll make a horizontal slice to cut the spaghetti squash in half. Do this by standing the spaghetti squash on its cut end and carefully cutting it into two even halves.
- Next, scoop out the seeds and stringy insides.
- Drizzle the cut side of the squash with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the spaghetti squash halves cut side down on the parchment paper lined baking sheet.
- Roast for 35 to 40 minutes or until lightly browned on the outside and fork tender on the inside. If your squash is larger, it may require more roasting time.
- Remove from the oven and flip the squash so that it's cut side up. When cool to the touch, use the tines of a fork to scrape and fluff the long strands from the squash.
* The nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
Jana says
I planted squash in my garden for the first time and needed to figure out how to prepare it. This recipe is very straightforward and yields tasty results! thank you!
Brent says
Super easy guide - thank you! Squash came out perfect and was easy to follow.