This Microwave Spaghetti Squash is a foolproof, easy way to cook squash perfectly in a fraction of the time.
Cooked spaghetti squash can be done several different ways but cooking it in the microwave is a game-changer. It is hands down the quickest and easiest way to cook it perfectly every time!
I have made spaghetti squash in the Instant Pot and in the Air Fryer in an attempt to cut down the cooking time. Once I tried spaghetti squash in the microwave, I am not sure I will ever make it any other way!
Microwave spaghetti squash will still come out perfectly tender with a mildly sweet flavor. But you will not get the caramelized golden edges that you will get with baked spaghetti squash. It is much less effort and results in beautifully flavorful, perfectly cooked, long strands of squash.
You can enjoy it as a low-carb pasta alternative. Similar to these butternut squash noodles.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Quick and Easy – cooks in a fraction of the time in about 10 minutes.
- Healthy – a wonderfully nutritious low-carb pasta alternative that is so delicious.
- Versatile – you can enjoy this spaghetti squash with just butter, salt, and pepper, or add your favorite tomato sauce.
- Make-ahead – stores and reheats beautifully.
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Ingredients Needed
- Spaghetti Squash – one whole spaghetti squash that is medium in size.
- Water – to help steam the squash as it cooks.
- Salt and pepper – used to help flavor the squash.
- Butter – optional to season the squash after it cooks.
How To Cook Spaghetti Squash In The Microwave
Prep the squash: Pierce it with a fork, and place the whole squash in the microwave for 3-4 minutes to soften it up. Remove it and use a sharp knife to cut it in half lengthwise from top to bottom.
Scoop out the seeds: Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center.
Add water: Pour ¼ cup of water into the bottom of a medium casserole dish and place the halves of squash, cut side down in the dish, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
Cook the squash: Microwave the spaghetti squash for 6-10 minutes until a fork or knife can easily pierce the skin of the squash. Carefully remove the plastic wrap (hot steam will escape).
Use a fork to pull strands of squash away from the skin, top with butter, salt, and pepper, and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Choose the right squash – select a squash that is medium in size (3-4lbs) that is firm, and bright yellow with little to no blemishes.
- Cook it a little first to make it easier to cut – cooking the whole squash in the microwave for 3-4 minutes (no longer) will soften it up and make it much easier to cut it in half.
- Use the right amount of water – too much water can make it turn out mushy and not enough will make it cook too long. I found that ¼ cup was about the right amount for a 3-4 lb squash.
- Cooking times may vary – the cooking times will vary based on the size of your squash and the watts of the microwave you are using. I recommend checking the squash at around 6-7 minutes, then continue cooking it 1 minute at a time until it is done.
FAQs
Do you have to cut the spaghetti squash in half before cooking it?
Yes, you need to cut the squash! Cooking whole spaghetti squash is not recommended since it can explode from the build-up of steam inside.
How will I know when the squash is done?
You can tell when microwave spaghetti squash is done by checking its texture and tenderness. Use a fork to gently scrape the flesh of the spaghetti squash. When it’s fully cooked, the flesh should easily separate into long, spaghetti-like strands. If you encounter resistance or the flesh is still firm, it needs more cooking time.
What Does Spaghetti Squash Taste Like?
It has a mildly sweet flavor that is more subtle than other types of squash. Spaghetti squash’s appeal comes from its low-calorie, low-carb qualities that can be used as a healthier stand-in for pasta. It has tender long strands that mimic spaghetti and can absorb most flavors you pair it with.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ways to serve this amazing microwave spaghetti squash:
- Spaghetti squash and meatballs: After cooking, scrape the squash into long strands and top it with some meatballs and your favorite sauce.
- Pesto squash – toss the squash with some pesto and grated cheese.
- Pizza bowls – add the cooked squash to a bowl, top it with pizza sauce, pepperoni, and some mozzarella cheese, melt the cheese, and enjoy!
Storing and Reheating
Storing: Leftover squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to let it cool first.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftover spaghetti squash, reheat it in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven until it’s heated through. Add your preferred sauce or toppings as desired.
More Spaghetti Squash Recipes
Did you try this Microwave Spaghetti Squash Recipe? If you did, then please leave a rating and comment below. I would love to hear how yours turned out!
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Microwave Spaghetti Squash
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This microwave spaghetti squash is a foolproof, easy way to cook squash perfectly in a fraction of the time.
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash – about 3–4 lbs
- ¼ cup water
- Salt and pepper
- Butter – optional
Instructions
- Pierce the squash all over using a fork, place the whole squash into the microwave, and cook it for 3-4 minutes. Carefully remove it and use a sharp knife to cut the squash in half lengthwise from top to bottom. Then use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center and discard the pulp and seeds.
- Pour the ¼ cup of water into the bottom of a casserole dish and place the two halves of squash cut-side down in the dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
- Microwave the squash for 6-10 minutes, until a knife or fork can easily pierce the skin. Check it at about 6-7 minutes and continue cooking as needed.
- Once the squash is done cooking, carefully remove it from the microwave, remove the plastic wrap (hot steam will escape), let it cool for a few minutes then use a fork to pull the long strands of squash away from the skin by scraping it from front to back.
- Season with butter, salt, and pepper, and enjoy!
Notes
- Select a medium squash that is firm and bright yellow in color for the best results.
- Cook the squash a little before cutting it to make it easier. Do not cook it longer than 4-5 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, reheat portions in the microwave until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Healthy side dishes
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
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