How to Make Spaghetti Squash — in the Microwave and Oven!

Our handy video above shows you two simple ways to make spaghetti squash. These methods, in the oven or microwave, result in the same texture and generally the same flavor. The rest is up to you: Add olives, alfredo sauce or turkey meatballs to amp up this squash base.  

What you'll need: 

• Sharp knife — see our top picks!

• Fork and large spoon

• Cutting board 

• Microwave-safe dish or oven-proof large casserole dish

• Spaghetti squash, size of your choice

• Toppings of your choice 

For detailed steps for microwaving a spaghetti squash, keep reading...

Grab a sharp knife and pierce the squash all over (similar to how you would prepare a baked potato!).

Place the pierced squash in a microwave-safe dish, preferably one with a lip so it doesn't roll around, and microwave on high for 5-6 minutes per pound of squash. 

Carefully remove the dish from the microwave with oven mitts. Don't touch the squash or the bowl directly — both will be very hot! Let the squash cool on the counter until it's safe to touch. 

Once the squash it cool enough to handle, use a large knife to cut in half. Then, with a spoon, scoop out the seeds — similar to how you would prepare a jack-o'-lantern.

PRO TIP: Place a damp paper towel under the cutting board to prevent it from slipping and sliding as you work.  

Take a dinner fork and drag it along the inside, meaty part of the squash. This will create spaghetti-like pieces. Scoop the scraped-out pieces into a bowl and fluff it with the fork. Do this until you reach the skin. Discard the skin when you're done.

Now that you have that heaping plate of yellow strands, you can get creative with flavors! Red sauce and cheese is a tried-and-true combo, but there are many ways to dress up your spaghetti squash, including with meatballs, olives or mushrooms. 

A zap in the microwave is a good go-to for busy weeknights, but baking it in the oven gives the squash a gorgeous caramelized finish that can't be beat. Follow the same first preparation step as microwaving, then follow these steps below. Be sure to add an hour for cooking!

1. Slice the squash in half, placing the squash cut-side down in an oven-safe casserole dish. Add with 1/4 inch of water. 

2. Bake at 400°F for 45 minutes. 

3. After 45 minutes, take the squash pieces out, flip them and then bake for another 15 minutes. Finish it off by following steps 4-7 as listed above.