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.
Jump to RecipeIna 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)

How To Make Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash
- 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.
- Roast the squash: Place the halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 35–40 minutes, until tender.
- 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.
- 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.
- Finish with cheese and herbs: Toss squash with Parmesan and parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with more Parmesan and parsley if desired.

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

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.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Homemade Ricotta Recipe
- Ina Garten String Beans With Shallots Recipe
- Barefoot Contessa Spinach Pie Recipe
Ina Garten Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Course: Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes40
minutes120
kcalA 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.
