This foolproof method shows you how to cut spaghetti squash without any fancy knife tricks! Get ready for perfect, fluffy “noodles” every time, minus the squash shrapnel and workout. I also have bonus tips to keep your fingers safe, with or without a microwave, and some amazing recipes to use up the squash!
This post contains helpful tips and tricks! If you’re in a rush, please use the “Jump to Recipe” above!
📖 Cut spaghetti squash (microwave method)
If you’re looking for an easy way to cut spaghetti squash, pop it in the microwave first. This softens the tough skin and lets you easily slice the squash.
First, wash the spaghetti squash thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt from the skin. Then, using a fork or a paring knife, poke small holes in the skin of the spaghetti squash.
Place the squash whole in the microwave. Cook it on high for 4 minutes.
Carefully remove the squash from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. With a chef’s knife, slice it right down the middle.
Cutting it horizontally (i.e., along the shorter edge) vs. vertical (i.e., along the longer edge) will give you longer noodles. Counter intuitive, I know, but it works!
Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any loose fibers. Once you’ve cut and cleaned the spaghetti squash, proceed with your chosen cooking method!
📖 Cut spaghetti squash without a microwave!
Don’t have a microwave? Just use a sharp knife and some elbow grease. First, stand the squash upright on one of the flat ends. This makes cutting it in half lengthwise much easier and safer!
Then slowly slice in half with your chef’s knife using a rocking motion. Apply a steady pressure, by holding down the squash firmly, and then cut back and forth if needed.
I’ve listed some quick tips below that can help you get this right (and be safe!)
- Stabilize the squash so it doesn’t move. Place a damp kitchen towel or a non-slip mat under the squash to prevent it from slipping while you’re cutting. Use a cutting board and keep your fingers well away from the blade.
- Use a sharp knife. You hear this all the time, but a sharp knife is absolutely critical for cutting a hard squash. Begin by cutting off a small portion from one end to create a stable base.
- Cut lengthwise. With a firm grip on the squash, cut it in half lengthwise. Take your time and use a rocking motion with the knife.
- Use something heavy. If the squash is particularly tough, you can use a mallet or the back of a heavy knife to gently tap the blade of your knife so it goes through the squash. But be very careful and keep your fingers safe.
🍴 Amazing spaghetti squash recipes
Now that you’ve cut your spaghetti squash in half, use one of these many recipes to cook the squash:
- Oven-roasted, air fryer, Instant Pot, slow cooker, or microwave methods for cooking spaghetti squash
- Spaghetti squash casserole
- Spaghetti squash lasagna
- Spaghetti squash soup
- Stuffed spaghetti squash (my favorite!)
If you tried this recipe, don’t forget to comment and rate! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
How to Cut Spaghetti Squash
Equipment
- 1 Microwave
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 teaspoon olive oil, optional
- ½ teaspoon salt, optional
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, optional
Instructions
With Microwave
- Wash the spaghetti squash thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt from the skin.
- Using a fork or a paring knife, make small holes in the spaghetti squash skin. Place it in the microwave. Cook it on high for 4 minutes.
- Carefully remove the squash from the microwave (using oven mitts or a kitchen towel) and let it rest for a minute or two.
- Once you're able to handle the squash, use a sharp 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.
Without Microwave
- First, stand the squash upright on one of the flat ends. This makes cutting it in half lengthwise much easier and safer.
- Then slowly slice in half with your chef's knife using a rocking motion. Apply a steady pressure, by holding down the squash firmly, and then cut back and forth if needed.
- Once you've cut and cleaned the spaghetti squash, you can proceed with your chosen cooking method.
Notes
- Stabilize the squash so it doesn’t move Place a damp kitchen towel or a non-slip mat under the squash to prevent it from slipping while you’re cutting. Use a cutting board and keep your fingers well away from the blade.
- Use a sharp knife: You hear this all the time, but a sharp knife is absolutely critical for cutting a hard squash. Begin by cutting off a small portion from one end to create a stable base.
- Cut lengthwise: With a firm grip on the squash, cut it in half lengthwise. Take your time and use a rocking motion with the knife. If you use a microwave though, cutting it along the shorter edge actually produces longer noodles!
- Use something heavy: If the squash is particularly tough, you can use a mallet or the back of a heavy knife to gently tap the blade of your knife so it goes through the squash. But be very careful and keep your fingers safe.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
