Air-Fryer Spaghetti Squash: A Quick, Easy, Healthy Treat

Air fryer spaghetti squash is a quick, tasty, and healthy meal that can be served as a main or side dish. It is a great low-calorie, low-carb alternative to pasta, and can be served with a variety of sauces and toppings. Preparing spaghetti squash in an air fryer is faster than cooking it in an oven, and produces a better texture.

How to prepare spaghetti squash for the air fryer

Ingredients

• 1 small spaghetti squash (2-3 pounds)
• 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, parsley, parmesan cheese

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 350-375°F.
• Wash and dry the spaghetti squash.
• Cut off the ends of the squash and slice it in half lengthwise.
• Scoop out the seeds with a spoon or melon baller.
• Baste the oil or vegetable broth on the inside of the squash.
• Place the squash in the air fryer basket with the cut side up. If necessary, trim the long sides of the squash to ensure it fits.
• Air fry for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
• Remove the squash from the air fryer and season with salt and pepper.
• Use a fork to scrape the inside of the squash and create spaghetti-like strands.
• Top with parmesan cheese, butter, parsley, or your favorite pasta sauce.

Tips:

• If your squash is very hard and difficult to cut, you can soften it by poking holes in the exterior with a fork and microwaving it for 2-5 minutes before cutting.
• To prevent watery noodles, sprinkle salt on the halved squash before air frying to draw out moisture. Wipe off the excess salt before cooking.
• Make sure your squash halves are the same size so they cook evenly.
• You can also cook the spaghetti squash whole. Increase the temperature to 400°F and cook for 40 minutes, or until easily pierced with a fork. This method is only suitable for large air fryers, such as an air fryer oven.

How to cook spaghetti squash in the air fryer

Ingredients:

• 1 small spaghetti squash (about 2 pounds)
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional)
• Butter (optional)
• Freshly chopped parsley (optional)

Utensils:

• Measuring tools: 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon
• Sharp knife
• Spoon
• Air fryer

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
• Wash and dry the spaghetti squash.
• Carefully slice the squash in half lengthwise (through the stem) and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds.
• Drizzle about one tablespoon of olive oil on the inside of the spaghetti squash, followed by salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Then, use your fingers to coat evenly.
• Place the seasoned squash in the air fryer cut-side up.
• Air fry at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
• Carefully remove the squash from the air fryer and use two forks to lightly scrape the inside of the squash and fluff up the noodles.
• Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese, butter, and/or chopped parsley, or serve as a substitute for pasta.

Tips:

• Don't skip the olive oil—it keeps the squash moist and helps create tender noodles.
• Use your fingers to rub the seasonings into the squash, ensuring it is evenly coated.
• All air fryers are different, so check the squash around the 20-minute mark to ensure it is not burning.
• If you want to make this recipe oil-free, use olive oil or avocado oil cooking spray, or add 1–2 tablespoons of vegetable broth per half.
• Be careful not to burn yourself when fluffing up the noodles—using two forks is recommended.
• To reheat leftovers, use the air fryer, oven, or microwave.

How to reheat spaghetti squash in the air fryer

Yes, you can cook spaghetti squash in an air fryer! Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to reheat spaghetti squash in an air fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 300°F for best results. If you don't have that temperature setting, you can also reheat at 350°F.
• Place the leftover spaghetti squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut-side up. If you are only reheating the strands, you can place them directly in the basket or in an air-fryer-safe dish.
• Air fry for 3 to 4 minutes for halves or 2 to 3 minutes for strands.
• Remove from the air fryer and enjoy!

Tips:

• For even cooking, ensure your squash halves are similar in size.
• To prevent soggy noodles, sprinkle salt on the halved squash before cooking to draw out moisture. Wipe off the excess salt before air-frying.
• Reheat in the air fryer or toaster oven to maintain the texture of the roasted squash. Microwaving may result in mushier noodles.

What to serve with air fryer spaghetti squash

Air fryer spaghetti squash is a tasty, healthy and versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side.

As a Main Course

Air fryer spaghetti squash can be served as a main course, substituting for pasta. You can top it with your favourite pasta sauce, such as chicken bolognese, or pesto.

As a Side Dish

Air fryer spaghetti squash also makes a great side dish. It can be served with:

• Parmesan, butter, and parsley
• Balsamic feta stuffed chicken
• Dairy-free tomato soup
• Everything bagel-crusted salmon
• Air fryer pork roast
• Garlic bread
• Air fryer chicken breast
• Air fryer thin pork chops
• Air fryer lamb chops

Other Ideas

You can also get creative and add other ingredients to your air fryer spaghetti squash. For example, you could add mozzarella cheese for a pizza-like flavour, or add some heat with paprika, cayenne, or chilli powder. Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, and thyme would also complement the dish well.

Butter and garlic powder, or even minced garlic, can add an Italian-style twist to your air fryer spaghetti squash.

How to pick the best spaghetti squash to air fry

To pick the best spaghetti squash to air fry, there are several things to keep in mind. Firstly, look for a squash that is firm and heavy for its size. Avoid squashes with soft spots or those that feel too light, as these may be spoilt. The skin of the squash should be smooth and unblemished, with minimal damage, ensuring its freshness and optimal quality.

Secondly, check for vibrant colour. Ripe spaghetti squash typically has a bright, golden-yellow or orange hue. Avoid dull or pale squashes, as they may be underripe or lacking in flavour. The more yellow the squash, the riper it is. However, be sure to also check the stem end. The stem should be dry, firm, and intact, with no major blemishes or cracks.

Thirdly, consider the size of the squash. Spaghetti squashes come in various sizes, so choose one that suits your needs and the number of servings you intend to prepare. Larger squashes will yield more strands, while smaller ones are better for individual portions or side dishes.

Lastly, if possible, opt for organic and locally grown squash. Organic squash minimises exposure to pesticides and supports sustainable farming practices. Locally grown squash is likely to be fresher, as it has been harvested more recently.

Frequently asked questions