Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe

This Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe is a light and savory dish, which includes spaghetti squash and Parmesan cheese. It’s a healthy twist on the classic, ready in about 50 minutes.

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Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Ingredients

  • 1 large spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe

How To Make Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash

  1. Preheat and prep the squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle cut sides with 2 tablespoons olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Roast the squash: Place the halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 35–40 minutes, until tender.
  3. Cool and scrape: Let squash cool slightly. Use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands and place them in a large bowl.
  4. Flavor the strands: In a skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. If using, sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Drizzle the oil (and garlic) over the squash.
  5. Finish with cheese and herbs: Toss squash with Parmesan and parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with more Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • How to cut spaghetti squash easily: Microwave for 2–3 minutes to soften slightly, then cut with a sharp knife.
  • Can I prep this ahead? Yes, roast the squash in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
  • What can I use instead of Parmesan? Try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • Can I add protein? Grilled chicken, sausage, or chickpeas make great additions.
  • How to reheat spaghetti squash: Warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What To Serve With Spaghetti Squash

This dish pairs perfectly with light and hearty mains:

  • Grilled lemon chicken
  • Roasted salmon
  • Garlic shrimp
  • Caesar salad
  • Crusty whole grain bread
Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe

How To Store Spaghetti Squash

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Freeze: Not recommended—texture becomes watery after thawing.

Spaghetti Squash Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 120
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I microwave the squash instead of roasting?
Yes, pierce the squash and microwave for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through.

Is spaghetti squash keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and a great pasta alternative.

Can I use dried parsley?
Fresh is best, but use 1 teaspoon dried parsley if needed.

Why is my spaghetti squash watery?
Overcooking can make it soggy—roast just until tender.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, skip the cheese or use a plant-based parmesan substitute.

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Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

120

kcal

A flavorful, low-carb pasta alternative tossed with Parmesan, olive oil, and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

  • 1 large spaghetti squash (3 lbs)

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp kosher salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley

  • 2 garlic cloves (optional)

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut squash in half, scoop seeds, and drizzle with 2 tbsp oil. Season.
  • Roast cut-side down for 35–40 minutes until tender.
  • Cool slightly, then scrape into strands with a fork.
  • Heat remaining 1 tbsp oil. Sauté garlic if using. Drizzle over squash.
  • Toss with Parmesan and parsley. Adjust seasoning.
  • Serve warm with extra toppings if desired.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.