Description
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash is a quick and easy low-carb side dish that features tender spaghetti squash strands tossed in a savory mixture of garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. The air fryer roasts the squash perfectly, creating flavorful roasted edges while keeping the preparation simple and healthy.
Ingredients
Spaghetti Squash Preparation
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy center carefully to create clean halves ready for cooking.
- Season Squash: Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor during air frying.
- Air Fry Squash: Place the squash halves cut-side down into the air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Cool and Shred: Remove the squash from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Then use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands into a bowl.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 1 minute, ensuring the garlic does not brown.
- Toss the Spaghetti Squash: Add the shredded squash strands to the skillet and stir to coat with the garlic butter. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over the squash and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the squash and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or turkey for a complete meal.
- Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to increase nutrition and flavor.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or other hard Italian cheeses.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently with a bit of butter or olive oil to maintain moisture.
- For best texture, avoid overcooking and let squash release steam before mixing.
- Cooking whole spaghetti squash in the air fryer is not recommended; cutting it in half makes cooking easier and more even.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
