How To Cook Spaghetti Squash (Oven, Instant Pot + Microwave)

5 from 2 votes

Learn how to cook spaghetti squash three ways, in the oven, Instant Pot, or microwave, for tender pasta-like strands every time.

Prep Time5

Cook Time30

Total Time35

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: how to, instant pot, microwave, spaghetti, squash

Servings: servings

Calories: 75kcal

Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil. Hold off on the salt for now, salting raw squash pulls out water and makes it watery.
Place the halves cut-side down on the sheet and poke a few holes in the skin with a fork.
Roast 30 to 40 minutes, until the outside is lightly browned and a knife slips in easily but the flesh is still a little firm.
Flip the halves cut-side up, let them cool enough to handle, then drag a fork across the flesh to pull it into strands.

Cut the squash in half the same way and scoop the seeds.
Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot and set a trivet inside.
Set the halves on the trivet, lock the lid, and pressure cook on high for 7 minutes. Carefully quick-release the steam, then scrape the flesh into strands with a fork.

Start by poking holes all over the squash with a fork. This will prevent the squash from exploding in your microwave.
Add the squash to a microwave safe dish, and cook for 9-12 minutes. When you can easily poke through the skin with a knife, you know it's done.
Shred the inside of the squash with a fork and serve with favorite pasta sauce.