Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash

This slow cooker spaghetti squash is a great set-it-and-forget-it way to get perfectly soft and tender spaghetti squash. Add this low-carb veggie to your favorite dishes for a flavorful and healthy twist!

An image of cooked spaghetti squash with strands scraped with a fork and an instant pot behind it.

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.

📋 Ingredients and notes

To make slow cooker spaghetti squash, you’ll need one spaghetti squash, a cup of water, salt, and pepper.

Overhead view of spaghetti squash on a white table, with one cut open.

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.

Overhead view showing spaghetti squash with holes poked in 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.

A straight photo shows a knife cutting the spaghetti squash in half.

A straight photo of a knife cutting down the spaghetti squash in half.

A straight photo of a knife cutting the spaghetti squash in half.

A straight photo of a knife successfully cutting the spaghetti squash in half.

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.

An overhead image of an uncooked spaghetti squash half in a slow cooker.

Step 7:
Add 1 cup of water.

Step 8:
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the squash is tender.

An overhead image of a cooked spaghetti squash half in a slow cooker.

Step 9:
Let it cool slightly and scrape the squash into spaghetti-like strands.

A close up image of cooked spaghetti squash with the strands scraped with a fork.

👩🏽‍🍳 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.

👩🏽‍🍳 Troubleshooting FAQs

How do I cut my spaghetti squash open more easily?

You can pre-cook your squash in the microwave for four minutes to make it easier to cut it. Follow these full instructions to make cutting spaghetti squash quick and easy.

How long does it take to cook spaghetti squash in a slow cooker?

I recommend cooking spaghetti squash on low for total time of 4-6 hours in the slow cooker. The squash should be tender and easily pierced with a fork when it’s done.

Why is my spaghetti squash soggy?

You might have overcooked your spaghetti squash. To prevent this from happening, set your slow cooker to four hours first. Then, check for doneness, and keep adding 30-minute increments until you reach the desired texture. Also, make sure you set the setting to low and not high for the best results.

🍴 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.

An image of cooked spaghetti squash with a fork with spaghetti strands on the side.

🍴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:

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