Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
This Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for busy nights or those seeking a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. The air fryer method delivers tender spaghetti-like strands with a slight crisp, minimal cleanup, and versatile base ready to be paired with a variety of sauces and toppings.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 2-4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh herbs (parsley or basil), optional for garnish
- Prepare the squash: Rinse the spaghetti squash under cold water and pat dry. Carefully slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon to create a clean cavity.
- Season the squash: Lightly brush or spray the cut sides with olive oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder evenly over each half to ensure flavorful bites.
- Place in the air fryer: Arrange the squash halves cut-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap to allow for even cooking and crisp edges.
- Air fry the squash: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes depending on size. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; the flesh should shred easily into spaghetti-like strands.
- Shred and serve: Flip the squash halves and use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands. Toss with additional olive oil, fresh herbs, or your favorite sauce, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Choose a medium spaghetti squash for even cooking in the air fryer.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to maintain proper air circulation.
- Flip the squash halves halfway through cooking for uniform tenderness.
- Use a sharp, sturdy knife to safely cut the raw squash.
- Experiment with seasonings by adding onion powder, Italian herbs, or lemon zest for variation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to retain texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup cooked spaghetti squash
- Calories: 42
- Sugar: 3.9g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2.2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: air fryer, spaghetti squash, healthy recipe, low carb, gluten free, easy dinner, vegetable side dish