Spaghetti squash is one of my favorite low-carb swaps for pasta, and honestly, once you start cooking with it, you’ll wonder why you ever waited. This veggie is incredibly versatile: it soaks up sauces, holds up to hearty toppings, and delivers that satisfying, noodle-like texture without the carb overload. Whether you’re eating keto, cutting back on processed foods, or just trying to sneak more vegetables onto your plate, these 20 amazing low-carb spaghetti squash recipes have something for everyone. Let’s dig in!
The basics: how to cook spaghetti squash
New to spaghetti squash? No worries, it’s easier than you think! Here are the three most popular methods:
Oven (Recommended): Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and drizzle the inside with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35 to 45 minutes, until the flesh is tender and easily shreds into noodle-like strands with a fork.
Microwave (Fastest Option): Pierce the whole squash several times with a knife, then microwave on high for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through. Let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting and shredding.
Instant Pot: Add 1 cup of water to the pot, place a whole, pierced squash on the trivet, and cook on high pressure for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the size. Quick release, then cut and shred.
Pro tip: The oven method gives you the best texture and the least watery results, which makes a big difference when you’re pairing it with a sauce!
Chicken Spaghetti Squash Recipes
Chicken and spaghetti squash are a match made in low-carb heaven. This combo is light enough for a weeknight dinner but filling enough to keep you satisfied all evening. From creamy, saucy bakes to simple skillet meals, these recipes prove that healthy eating never has to be boring. And if you’re looking for a great place to start, make sure you check out my Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken recipe!
Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken
An easy skillet chicken recipe made with boneless chicken breasts, sundried tomato pesto sauce, white wine, chicken broth, garlic, and fresh herbs served over shredded spaghetti squash.
Featuring juicy chicken breast, spaghetti squash, mushrooms, tomatoes, green peppers, and lots of cheese. It’s healthy comfort food that’s low carb, gluten-free, and kid-friendly! It’s an easy meal prep idea and perfect for freezer meals, too.
Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken
This Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken is a low-carb dish made with the creamiest from-scratch sauce, fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and a mix of cheeses.
Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Boats with Chicken & Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce
These healthy, 21 Day Fix Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Boats are all-in-one meals that deliver almost 2 cups of veggies per serving. With all of that cheesy goodness and these adorable boats to eat out of, they're kid-approved too!
If you’re craving something a little heartier, this is your section. Beef and pork bring bold, rich flavor to spaghetti squash in a way that makes it feel like total comfort food, no pasta required. These recipes are perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to something extra satisfying on a weeknight. Don’t miss my low-carb meatball casserole recipe in this roundup; it’s one of my personal favorites!
Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole
A low-carb meatball casserole recipe made with shredded spaghetti squash, premade marinara sauce, lean ground beef and fresh mozzarella cheese.
This Stuffed Spaghetti Squash gives you the best of both worlds. All the same great flavors of Lasagna, hassle-free, AND healthier because you’re swapping low-carb squash for the pasta.
Creamy Crie Spaghetti Squash uses the tender golden strands of baked spaghetti squash and pairs them with a decadent brie sauce, mushrooms and crispy prosciutto.
Garlic Steak and Cheddar Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a fun and flavorful twist on steak night made by stuffing oven-baked spaghetti squash with thin-sliced ribeye steak, fresh vegetables, lots of garlic, and two kinds of cheese.
This low carb spaghetti squash carbonara recipe features a creamy, decadent bacon carbonara sauce. Gluten-free, with only 9 ingredients & 11 grams of carbs!
Don’t let the lighter proteins fool you: these recipes are anything but boring. Whether you’re going fully plant-based or keeping it light with seafood, this section delivers bold flavors, creamy sauces, and satisfying meals that work for everyone at the table. They’re perfect for Meatless Monday, a lighter weeknight dinner, or anytime you want to switch things up without sacrificing flavor.
Easy Spaghetti Squash Casserole
This Spaghetti Squash Casserole makes a perfect keto side dish. Easy and cheesy, with tons of flavor, it turns your dinner into a hearty meal.
Instant Pot Shrimp and Spaghetti Squash Fra Diavolo
This 21 Day Fix Instant Pot Shrimp and Spaghetti Squash Fra Diavolo is quick, easy, and delicious! It's a great, healthy keep-everything-on-hand meal! Gluten-Free & Dairy Free, too!
Microwave Spaghetti Squash with Sage-Browned Butter and Toasted Walnuts
This microwave squash recipe is surprisingly delicious, and easy enough for weeknights … but impressive enough for Thanksgiving dinner and holiday suppers, too!
Absolutely! Cook it ahead of time, shred the strands, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It reheats beautifully in a skillet or microwave, making it a great base for easy weeknight meals all week long.
How do I keep spaghetti squash from getting watery?
This is the number one spaghetti squash struggle, and there are a couple of easy fixes. First, always roast it cut-side down so excess moisture drains away. Second, after shredding, lay the strands on a paper towel and gently press to absorb any extra liquid before adding your sauce. Game changer!
How do I know when spaghetti squash is ripe?
Look for a firm, deep yellow skin with no soft spots or green patches. It should feel heavy for its size. If it’s still pale or yellowish-green, give it a few more days on the counter to ripen.
Can I freeze cooked spaghetti squash?
You can, though the texture does soften a bit after freezing. If you go that route, shred it first, portion it into freezer bags, and squeeze out as much air as possible. It’ll keep for up to 3 months and works best in baked or saucy dishes where a softer texture isn’t an issue.
There you have it: 20 delicious ways to put spaghetti squash to work in your kitchen! Whether you gravitate toward the chicken dishes, load up on the hearty beef and pork options, or keep it meatless, there’s truly something here for every taste and lifestyle. I’d love to know which recipe you’re trying first. Drop a comment below and let me know. If you make any of these, tag me on Instagram so I can see your creations!
Stay posted on my latest cooking adventures on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook. Don’t forget to tag me when you try one of my recipes!
Hi, I'm Amee and I'm completely obsessed with all things fitness, recipe makeovers, and creating tasty, time-saving, recipes. Born and raised in South Carolina, I have a deep love for southern food culture. I am a Certified Personal Trainer, Nutrition Coach, Cancer Exercise Specialist, recipe developer, and freelance content creator. I believe that anyone can be an amazing home cook, and there's nothing better than family time around the table!
