Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash

Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash is super quick, easy, and makes meal prep a breeze.

I admit, I didn’t get off on the right foot with spaghetti squash. The first time I made it years ago, I treated it like its name and attempted to turn it into a traditional spaghetti substitute with a red sauce and meatballs on top. I’m sure it’s possible to do this in a way that tastes good, but I failed pretty miserably; I undercooked it in the oven, so my squash “noodles” were still crunchy. And let’s be honest, spaghetti squash does not taste or act like pasta on the plate, no matter how much sauce you put on it.

Disappointed as I was, I eventually gave it another shot—and by then, I had acquired an Instant Pot. The Instant Pot has been a game changer for me in so many ways, and when I found out you can put an entire spaghetti squash in there, I had to try it.

The result was perfection. Pressure-cooking a hard squash results in a flawless cook, especially if you’re using the spaghetti squash as a base for something else. There are no crunchy bits on the edges, and it takes a LOT less time to cook versus the oven. The “spaghetti” scoops right out of the hard outer peel, and you can season it however you like.

Is Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash Healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe only has two ingredients, and one of them is water. Spaghetti squash is full of fiber, and it’s low in calories, fat, and carbs. It’s vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and oil-free. There’s even a little bit of protein! No wonder it’s touted as a health food.

Safely Cutting Spaghetti Squash

If you’re having trouble getting a knife through your spaghetti squash, you’re not alone. The thick, tough outer peel of the squash can be quite an obstacle, even for the sharpest kitchen knives. But don’t worry—there’s a simple trick to make the process much easier. Start by pricking the squash all over with a fork to create small vents. Then, place the entire squash into the microwave and heat it for 2-4 minutes. This brief microwave session helps to soften the hard rind, making it much easier to cut through safely. Depending on the size and density of your squash, it may take a little longer—check it carefully to avoid overcooking. Once the squash is easier to handle, you’ll be able to slice it open with far less effort, reducing the risk of injury and saving time in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

I love spaghetti squash with a drizzle of olive oil, melted cheddar, crumbled bacon, and green onions on top. It’s particularly lovely when tossed in a garlic and olive oil sauce and served with Sautéed Spinach garnished with shavings of Parmesan. I’ve had it with a hearty bowl of Turkey Chili, and it’s also perfect with a Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast topped with a lemon-cream sauce. Really, the sky is the limit with spaghetti squash!

Recipe