If you’re looking for a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, butternut squash spaghetti is a fantastic choice. This vibrant vegetable transforms into tender, noodle-like strands that pair beautifully with a variety of sauces and toppings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this guide will walk you through how to cook butternut squash spaghetti with ease and flair.
What Is Butternut Squash Spaghetti?
Butternut squash spaghetti refers to strands or noodles made from butternut squash, either by spiralizing the raw squash or by cooking it and shredding the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Unlike spaghetti squash, which naturally separates into strands when cooked, butternut squash needs to be spiralized or cut into thin strips to mimic spaghetti noodles. It’s a nutritious, gluten-free, and colorful alternative to pasta that’s rich in vitamins and fiber.
How to Prepare Butternut Squash for Spaghetti
Step 1: Choose Your Butternut Squash
Select a medium-sized butternut squash with a firm skin and no soft spots. You will need about two medium squashes to yield enough noodles for four servings.
Step 2: Peel and Cut
Slice the squash horizontally into thick chunks. Peel the skin off using a vegetable peeler or knife. Then, feed the chunks into a spiralizer to create your noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or mandolin to make thin strips.
Cooking Butternut Squash Spaghetti
Baking Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the butternut squash noodles on a baking sheet.
- Lightly spray or toss with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Bake for 6 to 8 minutes until the noodles are tender but still hold their shape.
Sautéing Method
Alternatively, you can sauté the noodles in a skillet with a little olive oil for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until tender but firm.
Making a Simple Butternut Squash Spaghetti Dish
Ingredients
– 24 oz butternut squash noodles (from about 2 squashes)
– 1 lb ground protein (lean beef, turkey, lamb, or plant-based)
– 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– Olive oil for cooking
– Optional garnishes: fresh parsley or cilantro, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bake the noodles: Follow the baking method above for the butternut squash noodles.
- Cook the protein: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add garlic and your choice of ground protein. Cook until browned and crumbly.
- Add sauce: Stir marinara sauce into the cooked protein and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine: Serve the sauce over the baked butternut squash noodles.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs and Parmesan if desired.
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce Option
For a richer twist, you can make a creamy butternut squash sauce:
– Roast or microwave butternut squash until soft.
– Puree the cooked squash with a splash of broth or water until smooth.
– In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic, then add the puree and a bit of heavy cream.
– Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
– Toss with cooked spaghetti noodles or butternut squash noodles for a comforting meal.
Tips for Perfect Butternut Squash Spaghetti
– Don’t overcook: Butternut squash noodles cook quickly and can become mushy if left too long. Aim for tender but still slightly firm.
– Use a good spiralizer: A countertop spiralizer with multiple blade options can make noodles of different thicknesses and is easier to use than handheld ones.
– Add herbs and spices: Sage, thyme, or rosemary complement butternut squash beautifully, especially in creamy sauces.
– Make ahead: You can prepare the butternut squash noodles and sauce in advance. The sauce also freezes well for future meals.
Variations to Try
– Butternut squash and bacon pasta: Add crispy bacon bits and sautéed onions to your squash pasta for a smoky flavor.
– Creamy sage sauce: Fry sage leaves until crisp and use as a garnish to add texture and aroma.
– Vegetarian or vegan: Use plant-based protein or skip the meat altogether, and substitute dairy with coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan sauce.
Butternut squash spaghetti is a versatile, delicious, and nutritious way to enjoy a pasta-like meal without the carbs. With simple steps and a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish that will impress family and friends alike.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with butternut squash spaghetti!