AIR FRYER SPAGHETTI SQUASH

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash is a total game-changer in my kitchen! I’ve always loved spaghetti squash for its light, low-carb goodness, but the air fryer takes it to a whole new level of convenience. It’s effortless and perfect for busy nights when I need something wholesome and satisfying. The best part? It cooks so much faster in the air fryer, saving me precious time while delivering perfectly tender strands.

I love pairing it with marinara sauce for a simple pasta alternative or transforming it into my Mediterranean spaghetti squash recipe for a flavor-packed meal. Whether you serve it as a side dish or make it a meal, this air fryer spaghetti squash recipe is an easy and quick option.

Why You Will Love Cooking Spaghetti Squash In The Air Fryer

• It’s So Easy: The air fryer cooks spaghetti squash faster than traditional methods. A small spaghetti squash cooks in about 20 minutes, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Quick and Convenient: This simple recipe requires only one small spaghetti squash, a few seasonings, and an air fryer.
• Versatile: Serve it with marinara sauce, top it with feta and sun-dried tomatoes, or enjoy it as is, it’s perfectly seasoned. There are so many delicious options!
• Healthy Option: You only need a light spray of olive oil for this recipe. It’s a healthy, low-carb alternative to pasta. Plus, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
• Perfect Texture: The air fryer cooks the spaghetti squash perfectly, resulting in tender, “noodles.”

What Is Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash?

Air fryer spaghetti squash is a quick and easy way to prepare the versatile vegetable. The air fryer cooks the squash evenly, which results in tender flesh that separates into noodle-like strands when scraped with a fork. It’s our go-to method for achieving perfectly cooked spaghetti squash in less time than traditional roasting. It’s ideal for quick meals or meal prep.

Ingredients Needed

• Spaghetti Squash: Use one small spaghetti squash for this recipe, ideally between 1-1.5 pounds so it fits in your air fryer basket.
• Olive Oil: Spray the sliced spaghetti squash halves with olive oil so the seasonings stick.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a hint of garlic flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning to give the spaghetti squash incredible flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Season the spaghetti squash with salt and pepper.

What Size Spaghetti Squash To Use

To ensure your spaghetti squash fits in the air fryer basket, use a small one that weighs between 1 and 1.5 pounds. This size is perfect for the air fryer, allowing it to cook evenly and fit effortlessly in the basket. It’s the ideal size for making this quick and delicious air fryer spaghetti squash recipe!

How To Make Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.

Then, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds.

Step 2: Lightly spray the flesh of the spaghetti squash with olive oil. Then, sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Place the seasoned squash halves in the air fryer basket, with the cut side up.

Next, air fry the spaghetti squash.

Step 4: Let the squash cool slightly. Next, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. After that, serve as desired and enjoy!

How Long To Cook Spaghetti Squash In The Air Fryer

Cook a halved and seasoned 1 to 1.5-pound spaghetti squash in the air fryer at 375°F for 18-22 minutes, or until the flesh is fork-tender and easily separates into noodle-like strands. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the size of the squash and your air fryer.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy air fryer spaghetti squash as a versatile side dish with a simple sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. For a low-carb pasta alternative, toss the strands with marinara, Alfredo sauce, or pesto for a delicious, healthier twist on traditional pasta. You can even add cooked shredded or chopped chicken for protein. For another option, use it as a base for stuffed squash recipes, filling it with cooked ground turkey, vegetables, or your favorite toppings for a satisfying, nutritious meal. The possibilities are endless with this easy, flavorful dish!

Expert Tips

• Choose the Right Size Squash: Make sure your spaghetti squash is small enough to fit in your air fryer, ideally between 1 and 1.5 pounds. This size fits comfortably in the basket for even cooking.
• Cutting Made Easy: If the spaghetti squash is too tough to cut, pierce it with a fork and microwave it for 1-2 minutes to soften it. This can make it easier to cut in half.
• No Need To Preheat: You can skip preheating the air fryer, but if you prefer to preheat, note that the squash will cook closer to the lower end of the cooking time.
• Check If Done: If you are unsure if the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh. It should easily separate into noodle-like strands when fully cooked. If it’s not tender enough, cook it for an additional 2-3 minutes and check again.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover spaghetti squash strands in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Variations

• Italian Seasoning Substitution: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can easily substitute it with a combination of oregano and thyme. Use 1/8 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/8 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a pinch of dried rosemary for a similar flavor profile.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
• Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan on top and air fry for an extra 2 minutes to melt.
• Alfredo: Toss the spaghetti squash strands with Alfredo sauce for a creamy, satisfying dish. Our cottage cheese Alfredo sauce or mushroom alfredo sauce are great options!
• Pesto: Serve the spaghetti squash strands with some of our homemade pesto or your favorite store-bought pesto.
• Garlic Butter: Add melted butter, garlic, and fresh parsley for a rich, savory flavor profile.
• Mediterranean: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese when ready to serve for delicious Mediterranean flavors.
• Buffalo Squash: Drizzle with buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use A Larger Spaghetti Squash?

If your squash is too large for the air fryer, cut it into quarters to ensure it fits and cooks evenly. If it still doesn’t fit, air fry it in batches.

How Do I Cut Spaghetti Squash?

To make cutting easier, pierce the squash with a fork and microwave it for 1-2 minutes to soften the skin. After that, carefully slice it in half lengthwise.

What Can I Serve With Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash?

Spaghetti squash is incredibly versatile. Serve it with marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or pesto as a low-carb pasta alternative. For another option, top it with feta and sun-dried tomatoes. You can also use it as a base for stuffed squash.

More Recipes To Try Next!

• Mediterranean Spaghetti Squash
• Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash
• Butternut Squash Apple Soup
• Air Fryer Butternut Squash
• Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce
• Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

If you try this recipe please be sure to leave us a comment and star rating ★★★★★ letting us know how it turns out for you.