If you’re looking to mix things up in the kitchen with a vegetable that’s as versatile as it is delicious, look no further than spaghetti squash. This unique squash, when cooked, separates into strands that resemble pasta, making it a fantastic alternative for a main dish for those who are gluten free, low carb, or simply looking to add more vegetables to their diet with a healthy dinner option. To help you make the most of this versatile veggie, we’ve rounded up the top ten spaghetti squash recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. There are so many different ways to cook whole spaghetti squash and get the most out of the vegetable! Take a look at these recipes and try one for dinner tonight.
10 Best Spaghetti Squash Recipes to Make
Let’s start with a classic and simple recipe. This great recipe is as straightforward as it gets—perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Simply roast your spaghetti squash cut side down on a prepared baking sheet until tender, shred it into strands, and toss it with a rich marinara sauce (either homemade as in this recipe, or jarred for an easy weeknight dinner). Top it with grated Parmesan and fresh basil for an authentic Italian experience. This dish is a great option for low-carb diets. Next time you're dieting and have that craving for a pasta dish, try this healthy recipe.
Recipe Tip: To add extra flavor to jarred marinara sauce, sauté a couple garlic cloves and a medium onion in a pan before adding the marinara sauce. This adds depth and makes the sauce even more delicious. Add ground Italian sausage or ground beef seasoned with Italian seasoning to the sauce for a classic meat sauce for this dish.
If you’re craving something creamy, this Spaghetti Squash Alfredo will hit the spot. Replace traditional pasta with roasted spaghetti squash strands and smother it in a homemade Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of the squash pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce. Add some grilled chicken for a delicious chicken alfredo, or some sautéed mushrooms to make it a complete vegetarian meal.
Recipe Tip: For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with milk or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt.
Why not take a culinary trip to Thailand with this Pad Thai-inspired recipe? This dish combines roasted spaghetti squash with a tangy, savory sauce made from soy sauce, peanut butter, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Toss in some sautéed vegetables and scrambled eggs, and garnish with crushed peanuts and cilantro, and maybe a little red pepper flakes for added spice. This recipe brings a delightful twist to traditional Pad Thai, using the tender strands from the spaghetti squash in place of rice noodles.
Recipe Tip: Substitute some cooked shrimp or tofu in place of the chicken if you want to change things up.
Craving a comforting, hearty meal? This Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs recipe (one of my favorite spaghetti squash recipes) offers all the goodness of one of the most classic pasta dishes, but with a healthier twist. The spaghetti squash provides the perfect base for tender, juicy meatballs and your favorite pasta sauce. It’s a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Recipe Tip: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of meatballs.
For a veggie-packed option, try Spaghetti Squash Primavera. This dish is loaded with colorful vegetables like red peppers, carrots, and fresh tomatoes, all sautéed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce. Toss everything together with your cooked spaghetti squash for a nutritious and refreshing meal. It’s a great way to use up any extra vegetables you have in your fridge.
Recipe Tip: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy finish.
If you’re a cheese lover, this recipe is for you. Roasted spaghetti squash is combined with a creamy cheese sauce made from a blend of parmesan and mozzarella, then baked until bubbly and golden. This dish is indulgent yet still relatively light, making it a perfect side dish or a satisfying main course.
Recipe Tip: Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy, golden crust. You could even drizzle with a tomato based sauce before serving, for added flavor.
For a flavor-packed dish with a bit of a kick, try Spaghetti Squash Thai Curry. The squash is cooked with a rich, aromatic Thai curry sauce made from coconut milk, red curry paste, and a mix of spices. Add in some bell peppers, sweet peas, and carrots for extra crunch and nutrition. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Thai cuisine in a healthy, low-carb format.
Recipe Tip: Adjust the spice level according to your taste. If you prefer a milder curry, use less red curry paste.
Why not start your day with something savory and satisfying? This amazing recipe for Spaghetti Squash Breakfast Hash combines roasted squash with crispy bacon, kale, and scrambled eggs. It’s a hearty and flavorful breakfast that’s also perfect for brunch or even dinner. The squash adds a unique twist to a traditional hash, making it a fun and nutritious choice.
Recipe Tip: This is a great spaghetti squash recipe to customize - you can experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added variety.
Spaghetti Squash and Black Bean Enchiladas are a great way to enjoy a Mexican-inspired meal with a healthy twist. The squash is mixed with black beans, green pepper, and onion, then rolled up in tortillas and baked until bubbly. Top with enchilada sauce and shredded cheese and fresh cilantro for a dish that’s as flavorful as it is nutritious.
Recipe Tip: Make it vegan by using dairy-free cheese and substituting the black beans with lentils or mushrooms.
Spaghetti Squash Lasagna is a healthy, no-pasta spin on lasagna
Lastly, if you’re a fan of lasagna, you’ll love this Spaghetti Squash Lasagna. Replace traditional lasagna noodles with roasted spaghetti squash and layer it with ricotta cheese and homemade spaghetti sauce. You can add in ground beef or turkey for more protein. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake until bubbly and golden. This mediterranean spaghetti squash recipe offers all the comfort of lasagna but with fewer carbs and more veggies.
Recipe Tip: Use a mix of different cheeses for a richer flavor profile.Spaghetti squash can be cooked in several versatile ways to suit your preference, time constraints, and diet. The most common method is roasting, where you cut the squash in half, scoop out the spaghetti squash seeds, drizzle the surface with a little olive oil, and bake it in the oven (the skin of the squash facing up) until tender. For a quicker option, you can microwave the squash by cutting it into rings or halves and cooking it on high for about 10-12 minutes. Another approach is using a slow cooker; simply place the whole squash in the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Lastly, you can also cook spaghetti squash in an Instant Pot for a fast and efficient method—cut the squash into halves, place it on the trivet with a cup of water, and cook on high pressure for about 7 minutes. Each method yields tender, pasta-like strands perfect for any of your favorite recipes.
Incorporating spaghetti squash into your meals is not only a delicious way to diversify your diet but also an opportunity to enjoy classic dishes with a healthy twist. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting like Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs or something fresh and vibrant like Spaghetti Squash Primavera, these recipes are sure to delight. Give them a try and enjoy the unique texture and taste that spaghetti squash brings to your table!
Try these other delicious squash recipes:
