Air-Fryer Spaghetti Squash: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Air fryer spaghetti squash is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook this versatile vegetable. It's a great low-carb alternative to pasta, and can be seasoned and served in a variety of ways. The air fryer method is faster than roasting in the oven, and it's simple to prepare and clean up. You can have perfectly cooked spaghetti squash in under 30 minutes, and it's easy to reheat leftovers too.

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

How to cut spaghetti squash for the air fryer

To cut a spaghetti squash for the air fryer, start by selecting a good squash. Choose one that is firm with no soft spots, has a bright yellow colour, has the stem attached, and shows no apparent cracks or blemishes.

Next, wash the squash and dry it thoroughly. Then, take a sharp knife and cut off a thin slice from each end of the squash. This will give you a stable base for cutting and ensure that both halves will be of similar sizes, which is important for even cooking.

After that, carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise, from stem to end. Use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds and pulp. If the squash is too long to fit in your air fryer basket, trim about half an inch from the base and tip. You can also cut a dotted line lengthwise around the entire squash before cutting it in half to ensure a more precise cut.

Seasoning and spices for spaghetti squash

Spaghetti squash is a tasty, low-carb, and gluten-free alternative to regular pasta. It is easy to prepare and can be seasoned in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for seasoning and spices to elevate your spaghetti squash dish:

Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper

A classic combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper is a simple yet effective way to season your spaghetti squash. Drizzle olive oil over the squash, followed by a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This trio of ingredients enhances the natural flavour of the squash without overwhelming it.

Parmesan and Herbs

For a more indulgent option, try pairing spaghetti squash with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, dill, oregano, or chives. If you're serving the squash with spaghetti sauce, oregano is an excellent choice. Dill pairs well with chicken or fish. Alternatively, you can use dried herbs, but remember to use a smaller amount as they are more potent.

Garlic and Herb

If you're a garlic lover, this combination is for you. Sliced or powdered garlic cloves cooked in olive oil until golden, along with chopped herbs like parsley and chives, will infuse your spaghetti squash with flavour. Pickled cherry peppers can also be added for a tangy twist. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.

Spicy Blend

For those who enjoy a kick of heat, a spicy blend of seasonings can be created using ingredients like smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. You can also add garlic powder and onion powder to this blend for extra depth of flavour. This combination is perfect for those who want to add a savoury and spicy twist to their spaghetti squash.

Italian Blend

An Italian blend of spices and herbs can be the perfect pairing for spaghetti squash, especially if you're using it as a base for a hearty bolognese or serving it with meatballs. You can also experiment with other blends like Herbs de Provence or five-spice powder to find your favourite flavour combination.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for air-frying spaghetti squash depend on the size of the squash and the model of the air fryer. It is recommended to start checking the squash around the 15-minute mark and adjust the cooking time accordingly. The squash is done when it is easily pierced with a fork and has a tender texture.

Most sources recommend cooking spaghetti squash in the air fryer at 350°F to 380°F for 25 to 30 minutes. However, one source suggests cooking it at 400°F for 40 minutes, but this is only possible with a large air fryer, such as an air fryer oven. Another source recommends cooking it at 360°F for 20 minutes.

It is important to note that different air fryer brands and models may cook at slightly different speeds. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye on the squash during the cooking process and adjust the temperature and timing accordingly.

When reheating leftover spaghetti squash in the air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 360°F and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until warmed through.

Reheating spaghetti squash

You can also reheat frozen cooked spaghetti squash. To do this, use a stovetop pot on low heat, or reheat it in the microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel) for 1–3 minutes. You can also use an oven-safe dish in the oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes.

Spaghetti squash as a low-carb alternative

Spaghetti squash is a low-carb alternative to pasta. It is a great healthy and nutrient-dense food, with 10 grams of carbs and 5 grams of net carbs per 1-cup serving.

To cook spaghetti squash in an air fryer, start by preheating your air fryer to between 350°F and 380°F. Wash and dry the spaghetti squash, then carefully cut it in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds. You can also pierce the skin of the squash with a fork in a couple of places. If your squash is too long to fit in the air fryer basket, trim the base and tip.

Drizzle the inside of the squash with olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable broth, and season with salt and pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning. Place the squash in the air fryer basket, cut-side up, and cook for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender.

Once cooked, remove the squash from the air fryer and season with additional salt and pepper, if desired. Use a fork to scrape the sides of the squash to create spaghetti-like strands. You can also add parmesan or pecorino cheese and toss to combine.

Spaghetti squash can be served as a side dish or used as a low-carb substitute for pasta in your favorite Italian dishes. It can also be paired with proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or meatballs, and sauces such as marinara, pesto, or alfredo.

Frequently asked questions