You can microwave spaghetti squash for a great low-carb side dish or entree. This cooking method is the quickest way to get those tender and fluffy noodle-like strands.
How to Make Spaghetti Squash in the Microwave
Updated May 17, 2023
Let me introduce you to one of my favorite bases for weeknight meals—spaghetti squash! When cooked, spaghetti squash transforms into soft-tender strands that have a mild, slightly sweet flavor. I’ll walk you through how to microwave spaghetti squash for the ultimate quick and easy dinner.
Gone are the days of baking spaghetti squash and waiting around for 40 minutes. While roasting the squash means some caramelized strands, it also means warming up the kitchen and an increased cooking time.
Making spaghetti squash in the microwave is fast, doesn’t heat up the house or require any extra kitchen appliances.
Microwave Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Ingredients
- Spaghetti squash
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the squash
Using a fork, pierce the spaghetti squash all around the outside. Scoring the squash lets steam escape while cooking.
Step 2: Microwave the squash
Transfer the squash on a microwave-safe plate and place in the microwave. Microwave for 5 minutes. Rotate the squash, then microwave for another 5 minutes. Let sit for about 5 minutes, or until cool enough to touch.
Step 3: Scoop and shred the squash
Cut in half, scoop out the seeds, then use a fork to shred the squash stands.
How to Serve Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash can be served as a side dish or main dish. Season it with olive oil, salt and pepper to keep things simple. The flavor also pairs perfectly with store-bought sauce for a low-carb spaghetti night. However, one of my favorite ways to enjoy cooked and shredded spaghetti squash is tossed in a skillet as a stir-fry with other vegetables.
For more ideas, check out our collection of spaghetti squash recipes.
Tips for Making Microwave Spaghetti Squash
How long does it take to microwave spaghetti squash?
It takes just 10 minutes to cook spaghetti squash in the microwave. You’ll want to flip the squash halfway through to ensure it cooks properly.
You’ll also want to account for the time it takes to slice the squash in half, remove the seeds and rake the strands into pasta-like noodles. It takes about 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
What to do if your squash is undercooked?
If you slice into your squash and realize it’s not fully cooked, continue to cut the squash open and remove the seeds. Place each half, one at a time, in a microwave-safe bowl along with a touch of water. Microwave until fork-tender, about an additional 2-3 minutes for each half.
What happens if you overcook spaghetti squash?
Overcooked squash has a spongy texture, rather than the soft bite of a properly cooked squash. If you overcook the spaghetti squash, place the squash halves cut-side down on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Let sit for at least 5 minutes to help remove the excess liquid. This trick will help improve the texture and taste.
Our Best Spaghetti Squash Recipes
Garden Harvest Spaghetti SquashThis will instantly become a new family favorite! You can use the vegetables you have on hand for this harvest pasta-inspired dish.
Spaghetti Squash CasseroleThis make-ahead casserole is just what the doctor ordered! Reviewers have tried this recipe with sausage, ground turkey and even ground elk with wonderful results.
Chicken Parmesan With Spaghetti SquashThis simple Chicken Parmesan can be thrown together in just 30 minutes. The quick dinner can even be made with Alfredo sauce!
Spaghetti Squash Casserole BakeThis well-seasoned cheesy mushroom dinner is about to be the star of your next big family dinner. Kids and adults alike will be scrambling for seconds, and even thirds!
Spaghetti Squash with Apples, Bacon, and WalnutsThis sweet and savory take on spaghetti squash is everything you've been looking for and more. Nothing goes better together than pork and apples, and bacon is no exception.
Chorizo Spaghetti Squash SkilletThis spicy one-pot dinner is a weeknight winner! Taco seasoning gives the dish a nice Tex-Mex taste that only makes it easier to crave.
Cheesy Bacon Spaghetti SquashCheesy? Bacon? Do you need any more convincing? The hint of brown sugar in this dinner really goes well with the smoky bacon.
Spaghetti Squash with Tomatoes and OlivesThis olive and tomato side dish is so simple but so delicious! Adding a meat, like canned tuna, can make this go from a side dish to a main dish.
Spaghetti Squash BoatsWho needs a bowl when you have spaghetti squash? With cheese, mushroom, onion and pepper, this ground beef dinner is a hit!
Chicken Florentine MeatballsThese chicken meatballs will make you wonder how anyone ever eats anything else! The chunky mushroom-tomato sauce only sends it over the edge.
Spaghetti Squash & Sausage Easy MealEasy meal? Say no more. This 30-minute sausage dinner is made simple with pico de gallo. Who knew!
Italian Spaghetti SquashThese oregano-seasoned spaghetti squash bowls are the perfect change-of-pace meal. It's like a bread bowl, but better!
Garlic Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and TomatoYou'll win over hearts with this garlic dish. The sauce is so nice and thick, you'll forget there's spaghetti squash underneath!
Turkey Stroganoff with Spaghetti SquashMeet your new favorite comfort food! This turkey stroganoff is healthy and creamy.
Originally Published: October 05, 2022
