How to Make and Cook Spaghetti Squash Using the Instant Pot

How to make and cook spaghetti squash using the Instant Pot is a quick and easy pressure cooker tutorial that will teach you how to make, which way to cut, and how long to cook whole spaghetti squash. Squash is ready in 7 minutes instead of waiting an hour to prepare in the oven! Perfect for keto and low-carb diets.

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I have had spaghetti squash on a few different occasions. I loved it from the first time I tried it. After researching recipes on how to prepare it on my own, I learned that spaghetti squash takes 45-60 minutes to make. That does not sound like a terribly long time, but when you are strapped for time, an hour can feel like an eternity!

An hour is also a long time because baking the spaghetti squash isn’t usually the only part of prepping the meal. You aren’t going to eat spaghetti squash without pairing it with something else!

I am thankful the Instant Pot has arrived in my life to save the day. Now spaghetti squash only takes 7 minutes!

What is Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash looks similar to typical squash but it’s larger and more round. In its raw state, if sliced, it will also look similar to regular squash. When cooked, strands form on the inside flesh creating angel hair-like strands, that resemble pasta.

Spaghetti squash can be used in a lot of dishes to cut down on carbs and also boost nutritional value. It’s packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for vegan, gluten-free, paleo, and just plain old healthy recipes! 

Calories and Carbs in Spaghetti Squash

One cup of spaghetti squash has about 42 calories and 8 grams of net carbs. One cup of white spaghetti pasta has about 220 calories and 40 grams net carbs. There is a huge difference when comparing the variance in net carbs! Carbohydrates are the body’s first defense for fuel. Your body burns carbs FIRST for energy.

When carbs are depleted, it moves on to burning fat.  I pay less attention to the calories variance here because the fewer carbs you consume, the more room your body has to burn fat. 

What Does Spaghetti Squash Taste Like?

Now for the burning question……does it taste like pasta?! 

No. Not to me. For me, it does not have to taste like pasta in order to be considered delicious. I LOVE veggies. I love vegetables, even more, when I can dress them up using an amazing recipe! And I have done just that.

Check out my Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo recipe. The cream sauce and juicy, savory chicken paired PERFECTLY with the spaghetti squash. I always say consistent healthy eating does not have to be a curse.

How to Make and Cook Spaghetti Squash in the Instant Pot

1. Cut the spaghetti squash in half, crosswise (not the long way).
2. Scoop out the seeds and discard.
3. Add 1 cup of water to the pot. Place the spaghetti squash halves in the instant pot, with the cut sides facing up.
4. Place the lid on the pressure cooker and cook on high pressure for 7 minutes. 
5. After the 7 minutes, release the valve at the top of the pressure cooker to lower the pressure. 
6. Remove the lid and the squash. Poke the squash to ensure it’s tender. Shred the squash with a fork to create “spaghetti.”

What goes well with spaghetti squash? Try this with my Keto Low Carb Spaghetti Squash Marinara and Meatballs.

Can You Freeze Cooked Spaghetti Squash?

Allow the squash to cool completely and then store it in a sealable bag. It will freeze up to 8 months. You can read more about How to Freeze Cooked Spaghetti Squash here.

How Long Does Spaghetti Squash Last?

It will last 3-4 days in the fridge.

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