Baked Spaghetti Squash

This Baked Spaghetti Squash recipe gives you simple step-by-step directions for how to get soft spaghetti like “noodles” that taste like the real thing. This recipe is gluten free, grain free, nut free, dairy free, egg free, and sugar free.

You can’t tell by looking through my blog, but I wasn’t always obsessed with spaghetti squash. The first time I attempted to make it was a complete fail. Instead of noodles, I had a pile of mush. The texture and taste were not appetizing and we ended up throwing it out. I didn’t understand the hype about spaghetti squash and certainly did not think it resembled pasta of any kind. I thought that this was another example of people trying to convince themselves that healthy food tasted great and swore I was never going to make it again.

My pact against spaghetti squash stood strong until I came across a recipe that looked too good not to try. Let me tell you, I’m so glad I gave it one more chance because this time it did not disappoint. Since then, I have baked spaghetti squash many times to figure out how to get the best results. I’ve tried various temperatures and cook times. I also played around with adding other ingredients, like olive oil, salt, and pepper. Eventually, I figured out the perfect combination and have been obsessed ever since. I am now one of those crazy people who is making a big deal about spaghetti squash and I’m okay with it.

After testing several different ways to bake a spaghetti squash, I have come to conclusion that the following steps give you the best chance of getting that perfect noodle-like texture. To start, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Next, take the spaghetti squash and cut it lengthwise. Then, use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and stringy flesh. Place the spaghetti squash on a baking sheet with the inside facing up. I have tried adding other ingredients but, in my personal experience, the best results come from leaving it plain. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 45 minutes.

You will be able to tell when the spaghetti squash is done when it appears soft and the strands on the top start to brown. Since the size of spaghetti squash can vary, you might need to adjust the timing. I used a medium sized spaghetti squash and 45 minutes was the perfect amount of time. The cook time range can usually vary from 40-55 minutes depending on size. When the squash is done cooking, remove from the oven and let cool. Use a fork to scrape out the inside of the spaghetti squash to create the spaghetti like noodles.

Although spaghetti squash can seem intimidating at first, it is simple with the right directions. Try replacing your pasta with these Baked Spaghetti Squash noodles and get ready for your new obsession. If you need some ideas for what to make with your spaghetti squash, check out my Easy Stir Fry Skillet here.

–Kelsey