17 Amazing Spaghetti Squash Recipes From Yummly

Spaghetti squash has become my absolute favorite vegetable for creating satisfying, healthy meals that feel indulgent without all the guilt. It’s like Mother Nature decided to give us pasta lovers a break by creating this magical, stringy squash that bakes up into perfect noodle-like strands. And when I discovered Yummiy’s incredible collection of spaghetti squash recipes, I knew I had found my new culinary obsession.

Why Spaghetti Squash Will Change Your Cooking Game

I remember the first time I cooked spaghetti squash feeling incredibly skeptical. How could a vegetable possibly replace my beloved pasta? But that first forkful changed everything. The texture is surprisingly similar to al dente pasta, yet it’s packed with nutrients and fiber. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can roast it, bake it, microwave it, even cook it in the Instant Pot.

The best part about using spaghetti squash is how it absorbs flavors beautifully. Whether you’re tossing it with rich tomato sauce, creamy pesto, or savory garlic butter, those golden strands soak up every bit of deliciousness. And at only 42 calories per cup compared to spaghetti’s 220 calories, you can enjoy generous portions without any guilt.

Our Favorite Yummiy Spaghetti Squash Recipes

After testing dozens of recipes from Yummiy’s collection, I’ve curated the absolute best ones that will make you fall in love with this incredible vegetable. These recipes range from simple weeknight dinners to impressive dishes you’d serve to company.

1. Classic Spaghetti Squash With Chicken And Veggies

This is the perfect starting point for spaghetti squash newbies. Tender roasted squash gets tossed with juicy chicken pieces, colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and your favorite marinara sauce. It’s comfort food at its healthiest. The recipe uses simple seasonings that let the natural sweetness of the squash shine through.

I love making a big batch of this on Sunday nights and enjoying leftovers throughout the week. The flavors actually improve as they meld together in the refrigerator. Don’t be shy with the fresh basil garnish – it adds such a bright, fresh element that balances the richness perfectly.

2. Basil Chicken Spaghetti Squash

If you’re a pesto lover, this recipe will become your new obsession. The basil chicken spaghetti squash combines tender shredded chicken with a homemade basil pesto that’s simply divine. What makes this recipe extra special is the technique of mixing some pesto directly into the squash strands before baking, then topping with extra pesto and Parmesan cheese.

The result is squash that’s infused with basil flavor from the inside out. I like to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten everything up. This dish feels fancy enough for date night but comes together in under an hour.

3. Spaghetti Squash With Pesto And Sausage

For those days when you want something hearty and satisfying, this spaghetti squash with pesto and sausage delivers. The combination of savory Italian sausage with vibrant pesto creates layers of flavor that will have you going back for seconds. I prefer using sweet Italian sausage for this recipe, but hot sausage works beautifully too if you like some heat.

Top tip: roast the squash cut-side down to get those perfect, separate strands. And don’t forget to toast some pine nuts for garnish – they add wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pesto perfectly.

4. Lemon Chicken & Spinach Spaghetti Squash

This light and bright recipe feels like spring in a bowl. The lemon chicken and spinach spaghetti squash is my go-to when I want something fresh and energizing. The lemon butter sauce is simple yet incredibly flavorful, and the spinach wilts beautifully into the warm squash.

What I love most about this recipe is how the acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the butter and chicken. It creates this beautiful balance that feels light yet satisfying. I often double the spinach because it cooks down so much, and the extra greens make me feel amazing.

Easy Spaghetti Squash Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Sometimes you need dinner on the table fast, and these easy spaghetti squash recipes deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. They’re perfect for those nights when you’re tired but still want something nutritious and delicious.

5. Simple Roasted Spaghetti Squash

The beauty of spaghetti squash is that sometimes simple is best. This basic roasted spaghetti squash recipe lets the vegetable shine on its own. Just olive oil, salt, pepper, and maybe a sprinkle of garlic powder. It’s the perfect base for any toppings you have on hand.

I love keeping cooked spaghetti squash in the refrigerator to use throughout the week. Toss it with leftover roasted vegetables, mix it into soups, or top it with a fried egg for a quick breakfast. It’s the ultimate meal prep superstar.

6. Garlic Butter Spaghetti Squash

When you need comfort food fast, garlic butter spaghetti squash is the answer. It comes together in the time it takes to roast the squash, and the garlic butter sauce is pure magic. I like to add fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon at the end to brighten it up.

This is my kids’ favorite way to eat spaghetti squash. They don’t even miss real pasta when I make this version. Sometimes I’ll add some grilled shrimp or chicken to make it a complete meal.

Creative Twist: Pollo Loco Inspired Spaghetti Squash

If you’re a fan of El Pollo Loco’s famous chicken, you’ll adore this creative twist. The Pollo Loco inspired spaghetti squash captures all those wonderful Mexican flavors in a healthy, vegetable-based dish. Marinated chicken gets grilled to perfection and served over seasoned spaghetti squash.

The secret is in the marinade – citrus juices, chili powder, garlic, and oregano create that signature flavor. I like to serve it with fresh pico de gallo and avocado slices. It’s a complete meal that feels like a treat but is actually incredibly good for you.

Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Squash Every Time

After making countless spaghetti squash recipes, I’ve learned some tricks that guarantee perfect results every single time. These little techniques make all the difference between good spaghetti squash and amazing spaghetti squash.

First, always choose squash that feels heavy for its size with firm, unblemished skin. Lighter squash tends to be drier inside. When cutting the squash, use a sharp, sturdy knife and be careful – these guys can be tough! I sometimes microwave the whole squash for 2-3 minutes first to soften it slightly.

Roasting cut-side down is my preferred method because it steams the squash from the inside, creating those perfect separate strands. Don’t overcook it – you want al dente texture, not mush. And always let it cool slightly before shredding with a fork.

Why These Yummiy Recipes Stand Out

What makes Yummiy’s spaghetti squash recipes so special is their attention to flavor balance and texture. Each recipe has been carefully developed to highlight the squash’s natural qualities while complementing it with perfectly paired ingredients.

The seasoning combinations are thoughtful and sophisticated without being complicated. From the bright citrus notes in the lemon chicken version to the rich, savory depth of the sausage and pesto dish, every recipe offers something unique and delicious.

I also appreciate how these recipes accommodate different dietary needs. They’re naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and can easily be made dairy-free or vegetarian with simple substitutions. This makes them perfect for serving to guests with various dietary restrictions.

Making Spaghetti Squash Part of Your Routine

Incorporating spaghetti squash into your regular meal rotation is one of the easiest ways to eat healthier without feeling deprived. These Yummiy recipes make the transition seamless because they’re so incredibly delicious.

Start with one recipe that appeals to you most, and soon you’ll be hooked. Before you know it, you’ll be experimenting with your own creations, using spaghetti squash in place of pasta in all your favorite dishes.

The beauty of these recipes is that they prove healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive. With spaghetti squash as your base, you can create meals that are satisfying, nutritious, and absolutely delicious. Trust me, your taste buds and your body will thank you.