This simple microwave spaghetti squash is light, easy to make, and tastes just like noodles!

Once you learn how to cook spaghetti squash in the microwave, you’ll see how easy it is to whip up a half or whole squash in minutes with just a few simple ingredients.

semi porepared microwave spaghetti squash on a plate

Make Microwave Spaghetti Squash Because…

  • You can have tender-sweet strands of spaghetti squash with just a few ingredients.
  • Spaghetti squash has a mild nutty flavor that pairs well with other sauces and dishes.
  • The microwave method is quicker than using the oven and makes light and fluffy ‘noodles’.
  • This squash is a nutritious substitute for pasta in spaghetti and meatballs or spaghetti salad.
ingredients assembled to make microwave spaghetti squash, including spaghetti squash, water, salt and pepper, and butter

Just 3 Ingredients

Squash: Look for heavy squash that is golden in color and free from bruises or cuts.

Butter: Butter makes everything better, and spaghetti squash is no exception! The mild flavor of squash is perfectly complemented with melted butter.

Seasonings: Simple salt and black pepper are all that is needed for perfect, simple flavor every time.

Variations

  • Replace the butter with bacon grease for a smoky flavor.
  • Toss squash with some parmesan cheese or herb and garlic seasoning.
  • A few dashes of hot sauce or salad dressing will add instant flavor to spaghetti squash.

PRO TIP: Rinse and season spaghetti squash seeds before toasting them for a healthy snack!

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Microwave

  1. Cut the spaghetti squash vertically from top to bottom and scoop out the seeds.
  2. Place half of the squash cut side down in a casserole dish with water.
  3. Cover with plastic wrap and cook (recipe below).
  4. Remove the squash from the microwave and flip over. Run a fork over the flesh to separate the strands.
  5. Season with butter, salt, and pepper before serving.
microwave spaghetti squash with butter

Tips for Success

  • To ensure the spaghetti squash is cooked through, don’t cook it whole. Cutting it in half ensures proper cooking and easier handling. However, if the whole squash is hard to cut, pierce it all over with a fork and microwave it for 3 or 4 minutes before cutting it in half.
  • The best way to check for doneness is to pierce the outer skin with a fork. It should be soft.
  • Once the squash is cooked, flip it over and start shredding the flesh, or it may become overcooked.

Leftover Microwave Spaghetti Squash

Keep leftover microwave spaghetti squash in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and the ‘noodles’ can be frozen for up to 6 months. Use leftover spaghetti squash in spaghetti tacos, or use it instead of macaroni in a hearty Minestrone.

Tasty and Easy Vegetable Recipes

Did you enjoy this Microwave Spaghetti Squash Recipe? Leave a comment and rating below.

semi porepared microwave spaghetti squash on a plate
5 from 1 vote↑ Click stars to rate now!
Or to leave a comment, click here!

Microwave Spaghetti Squash

This microwave spaghetti squash recipe makes tender and light strands of squash that are a delicious replacement for noodles.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4
Author The Shortcut Kitchen

Equipment

Ingredients  

  • 1 spaghetti squash
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions 

  • Cut the squash in half, top to bottom, and use a large spoon to remove and discard the seeds.
  • Place the water in a ceramic casserole dish and add the squash, cut side down.
  • Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and microwave 6-10 minutes or until the squash is easily pierced through the skin with a fork.
  • Remove from microwave, carefully remove plastic wrap and immediately flip the squash over (or it will overcook).
  • Run a fork along the strands to separate. Season with butter, salt and pepper.

Notes

If the squash is difficult to cut, poke it with a fork all over and microwave it for 3-4 minutes before cutting in half.
Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for 4 days and in the freezer for 6 months. 
5 from 1 vote↑ Click stars to rate now!
Or to leave a comment, click here!

Nutrition Information

Calories: 125kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 87mg | Potassium: 262mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 465IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 58mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Course dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine American

REPIN this Microwave Spaghetti Squash Recipe

microwave spaghetti squash with butter with text
microwave spaghetti squash with text
microwave spaghetti squash and ingredients with text

Categories:

,

Recipes you'll love

About the author

See more posts by

5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating