This post contains helpful tips and tricks! If you’re in a rush, please use the “Jump to Recipe” above!
💭 Why you’ll love this recipe
Set it and forget it with this convenient, effortless method. Slowly cook squash over several hours with minimal preparation and without needing constant attention. Slow cooking results in a softer texture, allowing the spaghetti squash to become perfectly tender and moist. Full of flavor absorbed from the hours of slowly cooking the squash, making this side dish even more delicious.
Variations & Substitutions
Spaghetti squash. Choose a spaghetti squash that fits comfortably in your slow cooker. If the size of your squash is too large, you might need to cut it into more pieces. You can also use butternut squash for a similar result. Seasonings. Season the inside of the squash generously with salt and pepper before cooking to infuse the strands with flavor as they soften. Aside from salt and pepper, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or chili powder to enhance the flavor.
📖 How to make slow cooker spaghetti squash
Cut spaghetti squash
Step 1:Wash the spaghetti squash thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt from the flesh. Step 3:Using a fork or a paring knife, make small holes in the spaghetti squash skin. Step 3:Place it in the microwave. Cook it on high for 4 minutes. Step 4:Carefully remove the squash from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. With a chef’s knife, slice it lengthwise from top to bottom, right down the middle. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any loose fibers.
Cook spaghetti squash in a slow cooker
Step 5:Season the squash halves with salt and pepper. Step 6:Place them in a slow cooker, cut side up. Step 7:Add 1 cup of water. Step 8:Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the squash is tender. Step 9:Let it cool slightly and scrape the squash into spaghetti-like strands.
👩🏽🍳 Tips for the best slow cooker spaghetti squash
⭐ Adding a cup of water to the bottom of the slow cooker is essential for creating steam that cooks the squash evenly without drying it out.
Pre-cooking the squash in the microwave for 4 minutes makes cutting through easier and reduces cooking time. Place the squash halves cut side up to prevent them from getting too soggy, as they won’t be sitting directly in the water. Start checking the squash at the 4-hour mark. Overcooking can make the strands mushy. Use a fork to fluff and separate the strands while they’re still warm for the best “spaghetti” pasta or noodles texture.
🍴 How to serve crockpot spaghetti squash
Spaghetti squash is a delicious and versatile ingredient that you can use for many recipes. You can serve it on its own or by adding olive oil, parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, and fresh herbs like basil and oregano. It’s a vegetarian favorite and a low-carb and gluten-free alternative for pasta and casserole dishes.
Some of our favorite ways to serve slow cooker spaghetti squash is by making spaghetti squash casserole, spaghetti squash lasagna, and stuffed spaghetti squash.
🍴Storage and reheating suggestions
To store spaghetti squash, let the spaghetti squash strands cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep the leftovers fresh in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe bag and store it in the freezer for 6-8 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight, then use it for your favorite spaghetti squash recipes as desired.
🍴 More Spaghetti Squash Recipes
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out these other spaghetti squash recipes:
Spaghetti Squash Casserole Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Spaghetti Squash Soup Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
📖 Recipe
