Description
Learn how to make perfectly cooked air fryer spaghetti squash with minimal effort. This versatile, healthy dish is a great low-carb pasta substitute or side dish, packed with a mild, nutty flavor. Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings and toppings!
Ingredients
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Substitution/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti squash | 1 medium | Substitute with acorn squash or butternut squash for a different flavor. |
| Olive oil | 1–2 tbsp | Use avocado oil, melted butter, or coconut oil as an alternative. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt can add extra minerals. |
| Garlic powder (optional) | As desired | Try curry powder, smoked paprika, or a pre-mixed seasoning blend. |
| Paprika (optional) | As desired | Adds depth of flavor. |
| Italian seasoning (optional) | As desired | — |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | As desired | For a spicy kick. |
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. If the squash is tough to cut, microwave it for 1–2 minutes to soften.
- Scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon or ice cream scoop. Reserve the seeds for roasting if desired.
Season the Squash:
- Brush the inside of each squash half with 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Cook the Squash:
- Place the squash halves cut side up in the air fryer basket. Cook for 20–25 minutes, depending on the size of your squash.
- Check for doneness by piercing the flesh with a fork—it should be tender and easy to scrape into strands.
Shred the Spaghetti Squash:
- Carefully remove the squash from the air fryer using tongs or oven mitts. Let it cool for 5 minutes, then use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the spaghetti squash as a pasta substitute, side dish, or base for casseroles. Top with marinara, pesto, or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- To avoid soggy squash, ensure it isn’t overcooked and let it cool slightly before shredding.
- For firmer strands, cook for slightly less time. For softer strands, add 3–5 minutes to the cooking time.
- Reserve the seeds for roasting—they make a delicious snack!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 squash
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: spaghetti squash recipe, air fryer squash, low-carb pasta substitute, healthy side dish, squash in air fryer