Craving a quick and healthy Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash Recipe? This low-carb dish, made with garlic-infused olive oil and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, offers the best flavor with minimal prep time. Perfect for a fast dinner or meal prep. It’s a flavorful, low-calorie alternative to pasta that’s sure to please everyone.

Spaghetti squash, a winter squash variety, gets its name from the unique way its flesh separates into spaghetti-like strands once cooked. This squash has gained popularity not only for its nutritional benefits but also for its versatility in various dishes.
It’s particularly used as a low-carb pasta alternative, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes while keeping your carb intake in check.
If you like this side dish recipe, you'll also love our Crispy Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Parmesan and Garlic Aioli or our Whole Chicken in the Air Fryer.
Jump to:
- Why We Love This Recipe:
- Ingredients
- How To Cook Spaghetti Squash in an Air Fryer
- What Can I Substitute in this Recipe?
- How Can I Customize this Recipe?
- Expert Tips for Success
- How Should I Store and Reheat this Recipe?
- Recipe FAQs
- More Vegetable Recipes You'll Love ♥️
- Related Side Dishes
- 📖 Recipe
- 💬 Share Your Thoughts
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: This air fryer spaghetti squash cooks in just 20-25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Healthy Alternative: Low in calories and carbs, spaghetti squash is a nutritious choice for those watching their diet.
- Flavorful: The garlic-infused olive oil and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese create a delicious flavor.
- Versatile: This dish can be served as a side or a main dish, easily paired with proteins like chicken or shrimp.
Ingredients
- Medium Spaghetti Squash: The star of the dish, providing a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
- Whole Garlic Cloves: Infuses the oil with a garlic flavor.
- Grated Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy finish to the dish.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor.
- Olive Oil: Used for browning and taste.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
How To Cook Spaghetti Squash in an Air Fryer
STEP 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
STEP 2: Infuse the Oil with Garlic
In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat and add the whole garlic cloves. Allow to infuse for about 5-10 minutes, then remove the garlic. Be careful not to burn.
STEP 3: Season the Squash
Brush the cut sides of each squash half with the garlic-infused olive oil, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and place in the air fryer basket cut side up.
STEP 4: Air Fry and Serve
Air fry for 20-25 minutes until tender, then scrape the flesh into strands and toss with grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and garnish with fresh herbs.
What Can I Substitute in this Recipe?
- Olive Oil: Use avocado oil instead for a slightly different flavor.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Italian Seasoning: Replace with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a different taste.
How Can I Customize this Recipe?
- Diet: Make it vegan by omitting cheese and using nutritional yeast.
- Flavor: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Presentation: Serve in the squash halves for a beautiful table display.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and more meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Choose a medium-sized squash and make sure to cut it straight down the middle.
✔️ DO Let the garlic steep long enough to capture the full flavor.
✔️ DO Keep an eye on the time to avoid overcooking, which can lead to mushy strands.
How Should I Store and Reheat this Recipe?
Store any leftover air fryer spaghetti squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, allow it to cool, shred the flesh, and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Recipe FAQs
Cooking spaghetti squash in the air fryer typically takes 20 to 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Be sure to cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, and brush the inside with olive oil before placing it cut-side up in the air fryer basket.
Some of the best air fryer vegetable recipes include crispy Brussels sprouts, seasoned broccoli florets, and roasted root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes. These recipes are quick, easy, and perfect for healthy meals or sides.
Yes, spaghetti squash with Parmesan and garlic is a keto-friendly dish. Spaghetti squash is naturally low in carbs, and combining it with Parmesan cheese and garlic makes it a flavorful, satisfying option that aligns with keto dietary guidelines.
More Vegetable Recipes You'll Love ♥️
- Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage
- Crispy Garlic Parmesan Green Beans in the Air Fryer
- Maple Roasted Butternut Squash
- Quick Sage Brown Butter Sauce for Butternut Squash Ravioli
Related Side Dishes
Did You Like This Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash?
- Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Star Rating if you think this air fryer recipe is delicious!
📖 Recipe
Easy Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash with Parmesan and Garlic
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Fork
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Basting brush
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 3 cloves garlic whole
- ¼ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat and add the whole garlic cloves. Allow to infuse for about 5-10 minutes, then remove the garlic.
- Brush the cut sides of each squash half with the garlic-infused olive oil. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place the spaghetti squash halves in the air fryer basket with the cut side facing up.
- Air fry for 20-25 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork. Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly.
- Use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Toss the strands with grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and additional olive oil if desired.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Olive Oil: Use avocado oil instead for a slightly different flavor.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Italian Seasoning: Replace with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a different taste.
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