• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Kelsey P. RD
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Collab
  • Press
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Collab
  • Press
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • About
    • Recipes
    • Collab
    • Press
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Easy How-Tos

    How To Cut Spaghetti Squash

    October 16, 2022 · by Kelsey Sackmann · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe

    Wondering how to cut spaghetti squash, the best way? This easy trick to cutting will give you long, pasta-like strands every time! Here's everything you didn't know you needed to know about cooking and cutting spaghetti squash.

    cooked spaghetti squash rings on baking sheet

    This squash is good for so much more than fake spaghetti noodles. But whether you're making spaghetti squash burritos or chicken parm, you have to prep it first. Cutting a spaghetti squash the right way isn’t hard, you just need the right tools and technique.

    Jump to:
    • Best Knife To Cut Spaghetti Squash
    • Best Way To Cut Spaghetti Squash
    • How To Cook Spaghetti Squash
    • Microwaving Spaghetti Squash
    • How To Serve
    • How To Cut Spaghetti Squash

    Best Knife To Cut Spaghetti Squash

    First things first, you need a sharp knife. A chef's knife at least 8 inches long should do the trick. A larger knife allows you to cut through the entire squash at once. You can also use a small pairing knife, but those can get stuck easily and are tricky to dislodge.

    Best Way To Cut Spaghetti Squash

    The best way to cut spaghetti squash is to cut it into rings! When you cut spaghetti squash into rings instead of slicing it down the middle, you work with the strands, not against them. This results in those long, luscious "noodles" we all crave.

    spaghetti squash on cutting board

    Place spaghetti squash on a cutting board or non-slip surface.

    hands cutting spaghetti squash in half

    Insert the tip of your knife into the middle of the squash. Gently push the knife down towards the cutting board while rotating the squash forward until you hear it crack.

    hands scooping spaghetti squash seeds

    Use your hands to snap the squash open. Then, use your knife to cut around the seeds.

    spaghetti squash rings on cutting board

    Take one spaghetti squash half and cut 1 ½ inch thick rings. Repeat with the other side.

    spaghetti squash rings on baking sheet

    Place rings on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, salt and pepper. Bake at 400 F for 30-35 minutes.

    fork separating spaghetti squash strands

    Let the rings cool. Use a fork to pull out long strands of spaghetti.

    How To Cook Spaghetti Squash

    The easiest way to cook spaghetti squash is simply baking it in the oven at 400 F for 30-35 minutes. Cook it whole, halved, or in rings using the oven, air fryer, or even an instant pot! If you want to streamline the entire process, you can cook spaghetti squash in the microwave.

    cooked spaghetti squash rings on baking sheet

    Microwaving Spaghetti Squash

    Although microwaving spaghetti squash before cutting is not necessary, it may be helpful if you're still having trouble cutting through it. Simply pop it in the microwave for a few minutes before slicing and you're all set! You'll still need to cook the squash once it's cut.

    How To Serve

    You could start simple and season with garlic, oil, salt and pepper, but spaghetti squash goes with just about anything. Put a twist on your classic spaghetti and meatballs and swap your noodles for squash. Toss with pesto and shredded rotisserie chicken or mix with your favorite salsa and a canned beans to make a burrito bowl.

    spaghetti squash rings on baking sheet

    How To Cut Spaghetti Squash

    This easy trick to cutting spaghetti squash will give you long, pasta-like strands every time! Here's everything you didn't know you needed to know about cutting and cooking spaghetti squash.
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Servings: 4
    Author: Kelsey Sackmann

    Equipment

    • Chef's Knife
    • Cutting Board
    • Spoon
    Get Recipe Ingredients

    Instructions

    • Place spaghetti squash on a cutting board or non-slip surface. Insert the tip of your sharp knife into the middle of the squash. Gently push the knife down towards the cutting board while rotating the squash forward until you hear it crack.
    • Use your hands to snap the squash open. Then, use your knife to cut around the seeds.
    • Take one spaghetti squash half and cut 1 ½ inch thick rings. Repeat with the other side.
    • Place rings on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, salt and pepper. Bake at 400 F for 30-35 minutes.
    • Let the rings cool. Use a fork to pull out long strands of spaghetti.
    Tried this?Don't forget to tag @kelseyandcooperskitchen!

    you'll also love

    • mason jar salad with chickpeas, artichokes, and vegetables
      How To Make Mason Jar Salads
    • How To Build Balanced Snacks + 35 Healthy Snack Ideas From A Dietitian
    • Thanksgiving Plate Guide
    • How To Build A Balanced Meal (cheat sheet + recipes!)

    Reader Interactions

    Did you try this? Let us know! Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Registered dietitian and dog mom (now human mom) helping busy millennials shop smart and eat well on a budget. I share my passion for cooking with quick and easy recipes, grocery tips & time-saving kitchen hacks.  We’ll also discuss my dislike of cheese and cook with my dog, Cooper, from time to time.

    Learn more →

    Currently Craving

    • white plate with 4 strawberry cookies
      3 Ingredient Protein Cookies
    • plate of air fryer frozen vegetables
      Air Fryer Frozen Vegetables
    • Chickpea Artichoke Salad Jars
    • protein cinnamon rolls on white plate with pink napkin covered in icing
      Protein Cinnamon Rolls

    Dietitian Picks

    • How To Build A Balanced Meal (cheat sheet + recipes!)
    • bowl of high fiber cereal with berries
      17 Best High Fiber Cereal (Dietitian-Approved!)
    • Essential Trader Joe's Grocery List
    • healthy snacks on plates
      11 Healthy Grab & Go Snacks

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    About
    Press
    Grocery Guides
    Privacy Policy

    Newsletter

    Sign Up! for emails and updates (+ a FREE Build a Balanced Meal Guide)

    Let's Connect

    Contact
    Instagram
    Facebook
    Pinterest

    AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE I EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES
    Copyright © 2025 Kelsey P. RD

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required