Once you make Spaghetti squash in the Instant pot, you will never make it another way. Eight minutes under pressure, without even cutting the squash, and you have the perfect low carb or vegetarian side dish.
If you’ve never tried spaghetti squash before, prepare for a deliciously unique experience. It has a very neutral flavor to it. That makes it the perfect vessel for flavorful dishes like this Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash recipe!
Why Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash?
First, let me tell you WHY you should use your Instant Pot for making Spaghetti Squash.
Most people find that the biggest problem they face with spaghetti squash is cutting through the really tough skin . I have come dangerously close to slicing my fingers off more than once.
I love making spaghetti squash in my pressure cooker for a few different reasons:
- Little prep . It takes about 2 minutes of active time to set up
- 23 minutes of total cook time . About 5 minutes to pressure, 8 minutes under pressure, and 10 minutes of NPR
- Safer . You do not have to cut it! This to me is the biggest advantage.
Cooking A Whole Spaghetti Squash In The Instant Pot
So, here’s how you would make that Spaghetti Squash in the Instant Pot.
The advantage of cooking spaghetti squash, or any hard-skinned winter squash in a pressure cooker, is that you do not need to slice it before cooking. Yup. You read that right.
Many people suggest trying to cut it in half before cooking but if you have limited hand strength (or just prefer to keep all of your fingers) you should really try my method of keeping it whole. It’s a much safer approach and it cooks up just the same.
There’s no need to cut it before cooking. Simply pierce holes in the skin of the spaghetti squash and cook intact.
How to Make Spaghetti Squash in the Instant Pot
- Pierce the squash. Using the tip of a sharp knife, pierce the squash in several places. You are doing this to allow the heat to penetrate, and to keep the squash from exploding in your pressure cooker.
- Add water to the pressure cooker. Place 1.5-2 cups of water in the Instant Pot . Place a steamer rack in the pressure cooker.
- Cook for 8 minutes at high pressure. Close the lid and allow the pressure cooker on HIGH PRESSURE for 8 minutes. Yes I know that doesn’t sound like enough time, given that you could be baking spaghetti squash for up to an hour. But this works unless your squash is super ginormous.
- NPR for 10 minutes . At the end of the cooking time, allow the pot to rest undisturbed for 10 minutes. These 10 minutes count toward the cooking time, so do not rush it.
- Cut and prepare the squash . When you remove the squash, you can either cut it lengthwise for easy-to-manage strands or crosswise for really long strands.
- Remove the seeds. You will need to remove the seeds from the squash now. This can be a messy job. I find that using a grapefruit spoon really helps with this process so that you can just scoop them out.
- Creating the spaghetti squash strands. Then, using the tines of a fork, pull along the squash to get long, thin strands.
- Season to taste . You can just eat it as it is, with butter, salt, and pepper.
How To Make Spaghetti Squash In theOven
- Preheat the oven to 400F.
- Cut the squash. Cut the squash lengthwise for the fastest cooking time.
- Pierce the skin. Using a sharp knife tip, poke the squash skin in a variety of places.
- Bake. Place the squash face down on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper . Bake for 40 minutes
- Test for doneness. Your squash is ready when a fork scraped on the inside of the squash easily yields strands. Bigger squash will take longer so prepare accordingly.
- Remove seeds. I find it a lot easier to remove seeds once the squash is cooked. A good grapefruit spoon is the best way to do this.
- Make strands. Use the tines of a fork to make spaghetti-like strands.
- Season . I prefer to season my squash after it is baked, as I can then use it for either savory recipe like this Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash or just have it with butter and cinnamon.
What to look for when buying Spaghetti Squash
- Hard rind. Poke the squash skin lightly with a fingernail. If your nail doesn’t poke through the skin, the squash is ripe.
- Dark yellow color. Ripe squash is usually a beautiful yellow, with no white spots.
- Heavy squash. It should feel heavy for its size, although I realize this is subjective.
- Intact Stem . This is just really so that you don’t have an easy entry for bacteria where the stem could have broken off.
- Unblemished . No soft spots allowed! You want a clean, unblemished, hard squash.
- Properly Stored. Kept in a cool, dark pantry, you can store spaghetti squash for up to 2 months.
These same suggestions can also be used when picking an acorn squash. I have tips and tricks for how to cook acorn squash too!
How Many Net Carbs Are In Spaghetti Squash?
Well, it depends on how much you eat. With the high fat and protein content, you should feel full with less than you would imagine.
One cup of spaghetti squash only has 5.5g of net carbs! Don’t let the overall carb count intimidate you.
It is packed with fiber, which brings the net carb count down to a totally acceptable low carb level.
As someone who has lived a keto lifestyle for quite some time now, I can tell you that one of the hardest things to give up is pasta–but not any longer!
Is Spaghetti Squash Healthy?
Spaghetti squash actually has many health and dietary benefits. One of the main benefits is how low carb it is in comparison to pasta.
One cup of spaghetti squash yields only 7 grams of carbs, with 1.5 grams of that being dietary fiber. That means only 5.5g of net carbs per cup!
In contrast, regular spaghetti has a staggering 43 grams of carbs, with only 2.5 grams being dietary fiber. That’s over 6 times the amount of carbs as spaghetti squash!
How Long Does Spaghetti Squash Last?
Depending on the context of the question, you could get two different answers. So, I will answer them both:
- How long does spaghetti squash last? Once a spaghetti squash is harvested, it can last for up to three months before it is no longer fit to eat.
- How long does spaghetti squash last after you cook it? After you cook your spaghetti squash (no matter the method of cooking) it can last up to a week in the refrigerator while still being safe to eat.
Can You Freeze Spaghetti Squash?
Yes! It’s hard for us to eat a whole squash before it goes bad, so we’re practically pros at freezing them.
Put the strands into a ziptop bag , and squash the bag flat. Not only does this make for easier stacking in the refrigerator, but it also helps the squash defrost more evenly than if you had a large hunk of squash.
Looking For More GreatVegetarian Instant Pot Recipes?
- Spiced Butternut S q uash is a delicious side dish made fast in your air fryer.
- This easy Keto Tabouli recipe uses hemp hearts for a delicious, vegetarian keto side dish . Eat it as a salad, or use it as a savory fat bomb and enjoy a wonderful, fast salad.
- Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti squash is so easy, and a great keto vegetarian side dish.
- You can serve this spaghetti squash with my Mushroom Mascarpone sauce made in your air fryer.
- This Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Soup is an effortlessly easy take on a delicious classic.
- This Instant Pot Vegetarian Barley Pilaf with Mushrooms is so delectably savory.
- This Instant pot Mushroom Stroganoff is a delightfully comforting, warming and filling dish.
- Make this Farro Risotto With Butternut Squash easily in your Instant Pot with minimal effort.
- Mushroom Mascarpone Pasta - One of the creamiest, tastiest pastas I’ve ever had.
- Instant Pot Greek Green Beans - A deliciously hearty vegetarian-friendly dish.
Don’t forget to check out my Instant Pot Fast & Easy Cookbook or my Instant Pot Vegetarian Cookbook for more delicious recipes!
How can you tell if a Spaghetti Squash is still good?
Can I make spaghetti squash in the Instant Pot?
Why is my spaghetti squash bitter?
Is Spaghetti Squash truly low carb?
So the next time you get the craving for a spaghetti dish, save yourself the calories and carbs and make this delightful vegetarian Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash recipe!
How to Make Perfect Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Good set of Kitchen Knives
- Fork
- Grapefruit Spoons
- Steamer Rack
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 Large Spaghetti Squash
- ▢ 1.5 cups Water , for the Instant Pot
Instructions
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash
- Using the tip of a sharp, short knife, pierce the spaghetti squash in 7-8 places.
- Put 1.5 cups of water into the Instant Pot . Place a steamer rack into the pot. Place the pierced spaghetti squash on the rack.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on HIGH PRESSURE for 8 minutes. At the end of the cooking time, allow the pot to rest undisturbed for 10 minutes.
- Remove the squash and cut it open lengthwise, for more manageable strands or cross wise for longer strands.
- Drag a fork along the squash to get long strands of spaghetti squash. Save the squash shell if you will be serving your elegant creation in it.
- Season with salt, pepper and butter, or butter and cinnamon or use in a different recipe.
Watch The Video
Tips And Tricks For Making Spaghetti Squash
- Don’t skimp on flavorings. Spaghetti squash by itself can be rather bland. Flavor it well to enjoy it.
- If the strands are too crunchy for you, I find it fastest to place them in a ziptop bag and microwave briefly.
- Spaghetti Squash can be frozen . Put the strands into a ziptop bag, and squash the bag flat. Not only does this make for easier stacking in the refrigerator, but it also helps the squash defrost more evenly than if you had a large hunk o’ squash
- Baked Spaghetti Squash. See the post for instructions on how to make Spaghetti squash in the oven.
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LoveEasy Instant Pot Recipes?
- Chicken Vindaloo - You won’t believe the ease of this recipe!
- Caldo De Res - One of our personal favorites.
- Caldo De Pollo - An easy Instant Pot Chicken Recipe .
- Keto Breakfast - Wow with this brunch recipe.
- Chicken Korma - less than an hour for authentic flavors.
- Keto Side Dishes - Fall in love with cauliflower all over again.
- Keto Vegetarian Recipes - Skip the meat, not the flavor.
- Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes - Over 115 to choose from.
- Indian Curry - Made with coconut milk!
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How to Make Perfect Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash
Ingredients
- 1 Large Spaghetti Squash
- 1.5 cups Water for the Instant Pot
Instructions
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash
- Using the tip of a sharp, short knife, pierce the spaghetti squash in 7-8 places.
- Put 1.5 cups of water into the Instant Pot . Place a steamer rack into the pot. Place the pierced spaghetti squash on the rack.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on HIGH PRESSURE for 8 minutes. At the end of the cooking time, allow the pot to rest undisturbed for 10 minutes.
- Remove the squash and cut it open lengthwise, for more manageable strands or cross wise for longer strands.
- Drag a fork along the squash to get long strands of spaghetti squash. Save the squash shell if you will be serving your elegant creation in it.
- Season with salt, pepper and butter, or butter and cinnamon or use in a different recipe.
Tips And Tricks For Making Spaghetti Squash
- Don’t skimp on flavorings. Spaghetti squash by itself can be rather bland. Flavor it well to enjoy it.
- If the strands are too crunchy for you, I find it fastest to place them in a ziptop bag and microwave briefly.
- Spaghetti Squash can be frozen . Put the strands into a ziptop bag, and squash the bag flat. Not only does this make for easier stacking in the refrigerator, but it also helps the squash defrost more evenly than if you had a large hunk o’ squash
- Baked Spaghetti Squash. See the post for instructions on how to make Spaghetti squash in the oven.
How to Make Perfect Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash https://twosleevers.com/instant-pot-spaghetti-squash/
Make a Keto Carrot Cake in your pressure cooker that’s both gluten-free and low carb! nstant Pot Carrot Cake is perfect for days you don’t want to dirty a ton of dishes. And guess what? It tastes like a real cake.
Why Should You Try Keto Carrot Cake?
- Easy. Just mix the ingredients, pour and cook .
- Low Carb . Only 4 net carbs per serving.
- Gluten-Free . This Keto Carrot Cake recipe uses almond flour which is naturally gluten-free.
- Tasty. Loaded with all of the flavors you would expect in a traditional carrot cake.
You Can Make A Cake In The Instant Pot?
So I created this AMAZING Carrot Cake which was also Gluten-Free. It is without a doubt, the best Keto cake I’ve ever created. It is made in the oven and is wonderful, but I wanted to find a more efficient way to cook it.
This is where the Instant Pot comes into play. I had made another Instant Pot Keto Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cake a while ago , but I wanted to try one with carrots, walnuts, and cream cheese. So I went to work again and created this delicious Keto Carrot Cake .
Cake cooks well in the Instant Pot because it bakes it without drying it out. This is perfect for Keto baking which can be dry if you’re not careful.
Okay, I’ll be the first to admit that this Keto Carrot Cake isn’t pretty as the baked version. It also doesn’t taste as “baked” as the baked version.
But I do like not having to heat the kitchen and house for 40 minutes, so I’m posting this as an alternative for times you don’t want to use an oven or don’t have one, such as in your RV, or dorm, etc.
What Do You Use To Frost This Instant Pot Carrot Cake?
You can serve this cake without frosting, or you can make it a million times better and add my Keto Cream Cheese frosting . It’s only a few ingredients but takes this Keto Carrot Cake from good to incredible.
Are Carrots OK On Keto?
Depending on who you ask, carrots can be fine to eat on a low carb diet. They contain a fair amount of carbs, so you will want to eat them in moderation.
If you can safely work carrots into your macros for the day, go ahead and indulge. Especially if it’s in this delicious Keto Carrot Cake.
Is This Carrot Cake Keto-Friendly?
Yes! I use almond flour instead of regular flour, and Swerve instead of sugar to make this recipe. You still get all the great flavors of a carrot cake without all the carbs and calories from a traditional carrot cake recipe.
Can I Use Coconut Flour Instead Of Almond Flour In Keto Carrot Cake?
Unfortunately, no. Coconut flour and almond flour are two totally different ingredients and can never be subbed for one another.
If you’re not allergic to almonds, I highly suggest getting almond flour, because it’s a common Keto and Gluten-Free baking ingredient and is good to have on hand.
What Kind Of Pan Do I Need To Cook This Cake?
I recommend using a metal, 6" springform cake pan . I don’t suggest using silicone or glass to make this Instant Pot Carrot Cake. The reason is that it slows down the cooking process to use those types of pans.
However, if you have to use a glass or silicone pan, you will likely need to add more time. If you open the Instant Pot after cooking, and it’s still raw, cook for 5 more minutes.
How Do You Make Keto Carrot Cake?
- Grease a 6-inch cake pan.
- Mix together all ingredients using a hand mixer, until the mixture is well-incorporated, and looks fluffy. This will keep the cake from being dense as almond flour cakes can sometimes be.
- Pour into the greased pan and cover the pan with foil.
- In the inner liner of your Instant Pot, place two cups of water, and a steamer rack . Place the foil-covered cake on the trivet.
- Press the CAKE button and allow it to cook for 40 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Release remaining pressure. If you don’t have a cake button, just set your pressure cooker for 40 minutes at high pressure.
- Let it cool before icing with a frosting of your choice or serve plain.
Want More Instant Pot Desserts?
- Instant Pot Keto Cheesecake - this cheesecake is SO good you won’t even remember it’s Keto!
- Instant Pot Keto Almond Cake - this is a lovely cake you can frost or leave plain for a yummy dessert!
- Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake - this one is Keto and made in the Instant Pot too! You will love the gentle tang of the lemon in this recipe.
- Instant Pot Pandan Cake - Wonderfully soft, moist, and crazy delicious.
Check out my little friend Sam from Plate Art for Kids making this cake in the recipe card below!
If you love this Keto Carrot Cake as much as I do, make sure you share it with your friends on Facebook and Pinterest so they can make it too.
Keto Carrot Cake | Instant Pot Carrot Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 3 ( 3 ) Eggs
- ▢ 1 cup ( 112 g ) Superfine Almond Flour
- ▢ 2/3 cup ( 121.33 g ) Swerve
- ▢ 1 teaspoon ( 1 teaspoon ) Baking Powder
- ▢ 1.5 teaspoons ( 1.5 teaspoons ) Apple Pie Spice
- ▢ 1/4 cup ( 54.5 g ) Coconut Oil
- ▢ 1/2 cup ( 119 g ) Heavy Whipping Cream
- ▢ 1 cup ( 128 g ) Carrots , shredded
- ▢ 1/2 cup ( 58.5 g ) walnuts , chopped
Instructions
- Grease a 6-inch cake pan.
- Mix together all ingredients using a hand mixer, until the mixture is well-incorporated, and looks fluffy. This will keep the cake from being dense as almond flour cakes can sometimes be.
- Pour into the greased pan and cover the pan with foil.
- In the inner liner of your Instant Pot, place two cups of water, and a steamer rack . Place the foil-covered cake on the trivet.
- Press the CAKE button and allow it to cook for 40 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Release remaining pressure. If you don’t have a cake button, just set your pressure cooker for 40 minutes at high pressure.
- Let it cool before icing with a frosting of your choice or serve plain.
Watch The Video
- You can sub sweetener of choice for the Swerve.
- If you use a silicone or glass pan, you will likely need tocook for longer. If at the end of cooking it still looks raw, cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- You cannot sub coconut flour for the almond flour in this recipe.
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Originally Published June 22, 2017
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