Spaghetti squash is a delicious, low-carb alternative to pasta. It’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and has a mild flavor that pairs well with various sauces. But if you’ve ever cooked one, you know it can take a long time in the oven.
So, what’s the fastest way to cook spaghetti squash? In this guide, we’ll go over the quickest cooking methods so you can enjoy this healthy veggie in no time.
Why Spaghetti Squash?
Before diving into the cooking methods, let’s look at why spaghetti squash is so popular:
✔ Low in calories – Perfect for weight management.
✔ Gluten-free & keto-friendly – Great for various diets.
✔ Mild, neutral taste – Works with almost any sauce.
✔ Rich in nutrients – Full of fiber, vitamin C, and B vitamins.
Now, let’s get into the quickest ways to cook spaghetti squash.
1. Microwave – The Fastest Method
Time Needed: 10-12 minutes
Microwaving is by far the quickest way to cook spaghetti squash. It softens the flesh quickly and makes it easy to shred into “noodles.”
How to Microwave Spaghetti Squash
- Pierce the squash several times with a sharp knife to release steam.
- Cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Place both halves cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish with ½ cup of water.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
- Microwave on high for 8-12 minutes, checking after 8 minutes.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then shred into spaghetti-like strands with a fork.
Pros & Cons
✔ Fastest method
✔ Soft texture
✔ Requires no special equipment
❌ Can become too soft if overcooked
2. Instant Pot – Fast & Easy
Time Needed: 7-10 minutes (plus pressure release)
The Instant Pot is another super-fast way to cook spaghetti squash. It steams the squash under pressure, cooking it evenly in just a few minutes.
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in an Instant Pot
- Cut the squash in half and remove the seeds.
- Place the trivet in the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water.
- Put the squash halves cut-side up on the trivet.
- Close the lid and set to Manual (High Pressure) for 7 minutes.
- Allow 5 minutes of natural pressure release, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
- Remove the squash, let it cool slightly, and shred into strands.
Pros & Cons
✔ Even cooking
✔ Quick and hands-off
✔ Perfect texture
❌ Requires an Instant Pot
3. Air Fryer – Great for Roasting Quickly
Time Needed: 20-25 minutes
If you love a roasted flavor but don’t want to wait for the oven, the air fryer is a great option. It cooks spaghetti squash faster than an oven while giving it a caramelized edge.
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in an Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut-side up in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 20-25 minutes, depending on size.
- Let it cool, then shred into strands with a fork.
Pros & Cons
✔ Faster than the oven
✔ Roasted flavor
✔ Crispy edges
❌ Limited space in some air fryers
4. Stovetop Boiling – Quick but Less Flavorful
Time Needed: 15-20 minutes
Boiling spaghetti squash is a quick alternative if you don’t have a microwave, air fryer, or Instant Pot. However, it can make the squash a bit waterlogged.
How to Boil Spaghetti Squash
- Cut the squash into large rings (about 2-inch thick).
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt.
- Drop in the squash rings and boil for 15-20 minutes, until tender.
- Drain and let cool slightly, then shred into strands.
Pros & Cons
✔ Doesn’t require special appliances
✔ Cooks relatively fast
❌ Can be mushy or watery
5. Oven Roasting – Best for Deep Flavor
Time Needed: 30-40 minutes
Roasting spaghetti squash in the oven takes the longest but results in the best flavor and texture. If you have extra time, this is worth the wait.
How to Roast Spaghetti Squash in the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place it cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 30-40 minutes, until the flesh is fork-tender.
- Let it cool, then shred into strands.
Pros & Cons
✔ Best flavor
✔ Perfect texture
❌ Takes longer than other methods
Comparison: Which Method Is the Quickest?
| Method | Time Needed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Microwave | 10-12 min | Super-fast cooking |
| Instant Pot | 7-10 min | Even cooking, hands-off |
| Air Fryer | 20-25 min | Roasted flavor, crispy edges |
| Boiling | 15-20 min | Quick, but less flavor |
| Oven Roasting | 30-40 min | Best flavor, great texture |
Tips for the Best Spaghetti Squash
✔ Cut widthwise, not lengthwise – This creates longer “noodles.”
✔ Season before cooking – A little oil and salt enhance the flavor.
✔ Let it rest before shredding – Helps the strands firm up.
✔ Use a fork to fluff – Scrape gently for perfect spaghetti-like texture.
The fastest way to cook spaghetti squash is the microwave (10-12 minutes) or Instant Pot (7-10 minutes). If you prefer better texture and flavor, the air fryer (20-25 minutes) or oven roasting (30-40 minutes) are great options.
No matter which method you choose, you’ll end up with a delicious, healthy, and versatile spaghetti squash dish in no time. Try these methods today and enjoy an easy, nutritious meal!