Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
How to Make the Best Baked Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Best Baked Spaghetti Squash with Roasted Vegetables

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Clarice
  • Prep Time: 35 mins
  • Cook Time: 40 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Vegetarian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This nutritious baked spaghetti squash recipe is a vibrant and hearty meal that transforms simple vegetables into a satisfying main course. By steaming the squash to lock in moisture before finishing it in the oven, you achieve the perfect texture every time. Infused with warm cumin, rich ghee, and a medley of roasted vegetables like potatoes and bell peppers, this dish is a wholesome, family-friendly dinner option that brings bold flavors to your table.


Ingredients

Scale

1 medium spaghetti squash
2 medium potatoes, diced
2 cups zucchini, chopped
2 cups tomatoes, eggplant, or red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon ghee
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
Optional: grated cheddar, crumbled feta, Parmesan, or chopped almonds for topping


Instructions

Step 1: Steam the Squash and Potatoes

Add 1 cup of water to your saucepan or Instant Pot and insert a steamer basket. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise after removing the ends and place it cut side down. Cut your potatoes in half and place them in the basket as well. Simmer for 20 minutes in a saucepan or select the STEAM setting on your Instant Pot for 12 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural pressure release.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetable Topping

While the squash steams, prepare your veggie mixture. Chop the zucchini, tomatoes, eggplant, or peppers into half-inch cubes. Finely chop the onions and garlic. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, chop them into half-inch pieces. Toss everything in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper, mixing thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the squash is cool, scoop out the seeds and scrape the flesh into a bowl. Season with ghee, salt, pepper, and cumin. Spread this mixture onto your baking tray, layer the prepared vegetables on top, and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the vegetables are golden and tender.

Step 4: Final Touch

If you are using cheese or nuts, sprinkle them over the top during the final few minutes of baking. Watch closely until the cheese is bubbling or the nuts are toasted to perfection.

Pro Tips

  • Always taste a piece of potato before baking to ensure the salt level is to your liking.
  • To get those perfect “spaghetti” strands, use a fork to gently rake the flesh after scooping it out of the shell.
  • Don’t overcrowd your baking sheet; giving the vegetables space ensures they roast rather than steam.
  • Add the cheese only in the last 3-5 minutes to prevent burning.

Notes

Steaming the squash beforehand is the secret to preventing it from drying out during the bake. You can swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor profile. Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have in your fridge for the filling. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 squash half or portion
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg