How to cook spaghetti squash whole in microwave?

Here’s how to cook spaghetti squash in the microwave. It only needs 12 minutes to cook in the microwave and can be eaten whole or cut in half.

Spaghetti squash is another of my favorite vegetables these past few months. Even though I haven’t quite persuaded my family to join me in eating it, I frequently have spaghetti squash for dinner. I won’t try to convince you that it is identical to pasta because it isn’t.

But I like that I can eat spaghetti squash with the same sauces that I would use for pasta because the strands remind me of spaghetti noodles. Compared to pasta, spaghetti squash has a sweeter flavor and a crunchier texture.

I’m going to explain how to microwave spaghetti squash today because I’ve discovered that it’s the quickest and simplest way to cook spaghetti squash in the microwave.

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Video: Spaghetti Squash in the Microwave:

You must carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half. Folks, don’t microwave the whole squash or it might explode! Yes, people have exploded their squash when cooking the whole dang thing in the microwave. No joke, just google it.

So not only should you cut it in half, you can take further precautions and help it cook more evenly by poking holes through the middle of the squash with a fork before you microwave it.

Cooking times will vary depending on the size of the squash, so if it’s not cooked yet, cook it for about 3-4 minutes more until you reach the texture that you like.

What you get are delicious strands of spaghetti squash that can be topped with tomato sauce, cheese, herbs, meatballs or what ever you like. Seriously, if you plan ahead and have your sauce all ready to go, a spaghetti squash dinner can be finished in a matter of minutes.

All technique and recipe details are in the recipe box below.

A Trick for Cutting the Squash in Half

Like most winter squashes, spaghetti squash is difficult to cut in half. I’ve previously attacked with a chef’s knife, a folded towel to shield my hand, and some strength. Then I discovered a valuable tip in the discussion thread for our article on how to bake spaghetti squash.

“Score a squash with a knife and microwave it for a few minutes if you’re having trouble cutting it open.” It should cut in half much easier after that. ”.

– jerk nugget

I no longer feel like I’m fighting a kraken every time I cook a squash thanks to this method, though it still requires some effort and attention to your fingers.

You may need to adjust this based on your specific microwave, but five minutes is a good place to start. After some trial and error, I’ve found that about five minutes in the microwave seems about right. Scoring it aids in knife guidance, and a few fork pricks allow steam to escape.

To be very clear, this step only serves to slightly soften the squash’s exterior and make it easier to cut. Even with vent holes pierced through the shell, I do not advise microwaving the entire squash for more than a few minutes because doing so could result in steam building up inside the squash and creating a hazardous situation.

Microwave Spaghetti Squash: So Easy!

▢ 1 small spaghetti squash (2 lb.)

▢ Salt and pepper to taste, optional

Pierce the spaghetti squash in a few spots with a sharp knife.

Place the squash on a large microwave-safe plate. Microwave it for 5 minutes. Turn it to the other side (careful, it will be hot) and microwave it for 5 more minutes, until its soft to the touch. For a a larger squash, try 6 minutes per side.

Using oven mitts, remove the squash from the microwave (the squash and the plate will be very hot – use a trivet). Let the squash stand for 5 minutes to finish cooking.

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise. Allow it to cool for 2-3 minutes, just until easier to handle.

Scoop out the pulp and seeds from the center, then rake a fork back and forth to remove strands of the flesh onto a serving bowl.

Toss with butter, salt and pepper, or with your favorite sauce, and serve.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in a Microwave Before Cutting : Good, Clean Dishes