Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Roasted and buttered spaghetti squash topped with Parmesan and fresh herbs is a simple vegetable side dish that works well with any meal.

Buttered Spaghetti Squash

There are times when simple and perfectly savory are what I crave. Simple because I don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Simple flavors add up to awesomeness when we’re talking about buttery, slightly salty, and melting cheese. This garlic butter spaghetti squash is a combination I don’t get tired of.

Winter squash like spaghetti squash is a great pantry staple in the cooler months. It makes me feel like I am serving my family fresh vegetables in the middle of winter, so it feels like summer again.

Garlic parmesan spaghetti squash served with roasted chicken breast and a salad makes for a complete meal. Roasting the squash really is as easy as cutting it in half, a little oil, salt, and pepper, and popping it in the oven for 30-45 minutes.

After roasting the spaghetti squash let it cool briefly so that you can easily handle it. Roasted squash holds a lot of heat so be careful not to burn yourself with the squash or the steam.

Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a skillet and saute the garlic (this is hands down my favorite skillet for this). Carefully remove the spaghetti squash strands while the garlic is sauteeing.

Add the squash strands to the skillet and toss them with the butter. Add the remaining butter and then spaghetti squash. Tossing it gently once more to coat it with the garlic and butter.

Top the buttery squash with a sprinkling of parsley and parmesan cheese. Serve it immediately with chicken and a salad for a simple yet amazing dinner.

Garlic Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients 

• roasted spaghetti squash
• butter
• garlic minced
• freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• chopped fresh Italian parsley
• kosher salt

Instructions

1. Roast the spaghetti squash and set aside until cool enough to handle. Use a fork to pull the flesh apart and away from the sides. The flesh will form “spaghetti-like” noodles as it separates.
2. While the squash cools, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the remaining ¼ cup of butter and allow it to melt. Add the spaghetti squash to the butter mixture and gently toss to combine.
4. Add the Parmesan and parsley and toss again to mix throughout. Season with salt, taste, and adjust salt, as desired. Serve immediately, topped with additional Parmesan and parsley, if desired.

Toppings for Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash really is a rather blank slate for a host of flavors and toppings. From simple buttered spaghetti squash with garlic to drizzling the squash with balsamic glaze.

A quick sprinkle of taco seasoning adds a savory deliciousness to the squash. My go-to topping is a classic marinara sauce.

Did you know that you can make a pasta sauce from canned tomatoes that is so flavorful, your family will think it simmered all day? And it gets bonus points for pairing perfectly with spaghetti squash.