Looking for a delicious vegetable side dish that feels a little different from the usual Thanksgiving potatoes and casseroles? Spaghetti squash is an excellent choice.

When cooked, spaghetti squash develops tender, noodle-like strands that can be tossed with butter, herbs, cheese, garlic, vegetables, and other delicious fall ingredients. It is naturally versatile and works beautifully as a Thanksgiving side dish or vegetarian main course.

These 21 easy Thanksgiving spaghetti squash recipes are perfect for holiday dinners, Friendsgiving, fall gatherings, and cozy family meals. From simple garlic butter spaghetti squash to cheesy casseroles, creamy recipes, pesto variations, and stuffed squash boats, there’s something here for every Thanksgiving table.

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1. Easy Garlic Butter Spaghetti Squash

This simple garlic butter spaghetti squash is an easy Thanksgiving side dish that requires only a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
3. Scoop out the seeds.
4. Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil.
5. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 35–45 minutes, until tender.
7. Let cool slightly.
8. Use a fork to scrape the squash into strands.
9. Melt butter in a skillet.
10. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
11. Add spaghetti squash strands.
12. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
13. Stir in Parmesan.
14. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Serving Tip

Serve alongside turkey, gravy, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

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2. Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Parmesan cheese adds a savory flavor to naturally mild spaghetti squash.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Halve and seed the squash.
3. Brush with olive oil.
4. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 35–45 minutes.
6. Scrape the flesh into strands.
7. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
8. Add squash strands and garlic.
9. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
10. Add Parmesan and Italian seasoning.
11. Season with salt and pepper.
12. Toss gently and serve.

Serving Tip

Add extra Parmesan just before serving.

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3. Creamy Garlic Spaghetti Squash

This creamy version feels indulgent while still keeping spaghetti squash at the center of the dish.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons parsley

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F for 35–45 minutes.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a skillet.
4. Add garlic and cook briefly.
5. Pour in heavy cream.
6. Add Parmesan and nutmeg.
7. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
8. Add spaghetti squash.
9. Toss until well coated.
10. Season with salt and pepper.
11. Garnish with parsley.

Serving Tip

Top with additional Parmesan and cracked black pepper.

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4. Thanksgiving Pesto Spaghetti Squash

Fresh pesto gives spaghetti squash a bright, flavorful twist that balances heavier Thanksgiving dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• ½ cup basil pesto
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast the spaghetti squash at 400°F until tender.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Place squash in a large bowl.
4. Add pesto and olive oil.
5. Toss gently.
6. Add Parmesan and cherry tomatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Sprinkle with pine nuts.
9. Serve warm.

Serving Tip

Add fresh basil for a colorful Thanksgiving presentation.

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5. Brown Butter Sage Spaghetti Squash

Brown butter and sage are classic fall flavors that make this recipe perfect for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 8 fresh sage leaves
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F for 35–45 minutes.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a skillet.
4. Add sage leaves.
5. Cook until the butter becomes golden brown.
6. Remove crispy sage leaves and set aside.
7. Add squash strands to the browned butter.
8. Sprinkle with nutmeg.
9. Add Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
10. Toss gently.
11. Garnish with crispy sage.

Serving Tip

Add toasted walnuts for extra crunch.

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6. Spaghetti Squash with Cranberries and Pecans

Dried cranberries and toasted pecans make this recipe especially festive for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup pecans
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F until tender.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet.
4. Add squash strands.
5. Stir in maple syrup and cinnamon.
6. Add cranberries and pecans.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
9. Serve warm.

Serving Tip

Toast the pecans first for a richer flavor.

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7. Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole

This creamy, cheesy casserole is perfect for feeding a Thanksgiving crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 eggs
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• ½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast squash until tender.
3. Scrape into strands.
4. In a large bowl, combine squash, sour cream, eggs, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes.
9. Bake until bubbly and golden.
10. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Tip

Add chopped parsley to brighten the finished casserole.

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8. Spaghetti Squash with Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with spaghetti squash and fall herbs.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons parsley

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet.
4. Add mushrooms.
5. Cook until browned.
6. Add garlic and thyme.
7. Cook for 1 minute.
8. Add spaghetti squash.
9. Stir in Parmesan.
10. Season with salt and pepper.
11. Garnish with parsley.

Serving Tip

Use a mixture of cremini and baby bella mushrooms for extra flavor.

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9. Maple Butter Spaghetti Squash

A little maple syrup brings out the natural sweetness of the squash.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• Salt

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a skillet.
4. Add maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Stir in spaghetti squash.
6. Toss until coated.
7. Add pecans.
8. Season lightly with salt.
9. Cook for 2 minutes.
10. Serve warm.

Serving Tip

This recipe pairs particularly well with roasted turkey and cranberry sauce.

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10. Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Parmesan

Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients to this simple Thanksgiving side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ cup Parmesan
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
4. Add garlic.
5. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Add spaghetti squash.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan and nutmeg.
8. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Toss well.
10. Serve immediately.

Serving Tip

Add toasted pine nuts for a little crunch.

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11. Spaghetti Squash with Bacon

Crispy bacon adds smoky, savory flavor to mild spaghetti squash.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 6 slices bacon
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons parsley

Instructions

1. Cook bacon until crispy.
2. Remove and crumble.
3. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
4. Scrape into strands.
5. Cook garlic briefly in the bacon drippings.
6. Add spaghetti squash.
7. Add thyme and Parmesan.
8. Stir in bacon.
9. Season with salt and pepper.
10. Garnish with parsley.

Serving Tip

A little maple syrup can turn this into a delicious sweet-and-savory side.

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12. Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

Creamy Alfredo sauce transforms spaghetti squash into a rich and comforting holiday dish.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup Parmesan
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a skillet.
4. Add garlic.
5. Pour in heavy cream.
6. Simmer gently.
7. Add Parmesan and nutmeg.
8. Stir until creamy.
9. Add spaghetti squash.
10. Toss until coated.
11. Season with salt and pepper.
12. Garnish with parsley.

Serving Tip

Serve as a vegetarian alternative to heavier pasta dishes.

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13. Garlic Herb Spaghetti Squash

This easy recipe is perfect when you want a simple Thanksgiving side without a heavy sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon rosemary
• ½ teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper
• ¼ cup Parmesan

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape the flesh into strands.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
4. Add garlic and herbs.
5. Cook for 30 seconds.
6. Add squash strands.
7. Toss well.
8. Add Parmesan.
9. Season with salt and pepper.
10. Serve warm.

Serving Tip

Use fresh herbs when possible for the best flavor.

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14. Spaghetti Squash with Goat Cheese and Cranberries

Creamy goat cheese, tart cranberries, and tender squash create a festive Thanksgiving combination.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• ½ cup goat cheese
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup pecans
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Place squash in a serving bowl.
4. Add olive oil, maple syrup, and thyme.
5. Toss gently.
6. Add goat cheese and cranberries.
7. Sprinkle with pecans.
8. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Serve warm.

Serving Tip

Add fresh thyme and a small drizzle of maple syrup before serving.

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15. Spaghetti Squash with Garlic and Roasted Tomatoes

Roasted tomatoes add a burst of acidity and sweetness to the mild squash.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Toss tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 15–20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, roast spaghetti squash at 400°F until tender.
5. Scrape squash into strands.
6. Toss with roasted tomatoes.
7. Add Parmesan.
8. Season to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh basil.
10. Serve warm.

Serving Tip

This colorful dish is excellent for a vegetarian Thanksgiving menu.

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16. Spaghetti Squash with Sausage and Kale

Sausage and kale turn spaghetti squash into a hearty holiday side or main dish.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 3 cups chopped kale
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ¼ cup Parmesan
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
4. Brown sausage.
5. Add chopped onion.
6. Cook until softened.
7. Add garlic and kale.
8. Cook until kale wilts.
9. Add spaghetti squash.
10. Stir in thyme and Parmesan.
11. Season with salt and pepper.
12. Serve hot.

Serving Tip

Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat.

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17. Thanksgiving Spaghetti Squash Stuffing

Spaghetti squash makes a fun alternative to traditional bread stuffing.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 cups cubed bread
• 1 small onion
• 2 celery stalks
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon sage
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a skillet.
4. Add onion and celery.
5. Cook until softened.
6. Add sage and thyme.
7. Place bread cubes in a large bowl.
8. Add squash and cooked vegetables.
9. Gradually add broth.
10. Toss until evenly moistened.
11. Transfer to a baking dish.
12. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes.
13. Serve warm.

Serving Tip

Add dried cranberries and pecans for extra Thanksgiving flavor.

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18. Spaghetti Squash with Brown Sugar and Pecans

This sweeter version works especially well as a Thanksgiving side.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a skillet.
4. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Stir until combined.
6. Add squash strands.
7. Toss well.
8. Add pecans.
9. Season lightly with salt.
10. Serve warm.

Serving Tip

This is a great choice for guests who enjoy sweeter Thanksgiving side dishes.

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19. Spaghetti Squash Caprese

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a lighter Thanksgiving side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup mini mozzarella balls
• ½ cup fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Allow squash to cool slightly.
4. Add tomatoes and mozzarella.
5. Add fresh basil.
6. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Toss gently.
9. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Tip

This recipe is especially good if your Thanksgiving menu already contains several rich dishes.

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20. Creamy Spaghetti Squash with Mushrooms and Thyme

Mushrooms and thyme give this creamy recipe an earthy fall flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet.
4. Add mushrooms.
5. Cook until browned.
6. Add garlic and thyme.
7. Pour in heavy cream.
8. Stir in Parmesan.
9. Add spaghetti squash.
10. Toss until creamy.
11. Season with salt and pepper.
12. Serve immediately.

Serving Tip

Garnish with fresh thyme and extra Parmesan.

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21. Maple Cranberry Spaghetti Squash

Maple syrup, cranberries, pecans, and warm spices make this a beautiful final addition to a Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Roast spaghetti squash at 400°F until tender.
2. Scrape into strands.
3. Melt butter in a skillet.
4. Add maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Add spaghetti squash.
6. Toss until coated.
7. Stir in dried cranberries.
8. Add pecans.
9. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
10. Serve warm.

Serving Tip

Garnish with fresh rosemary for a festive holiday presentation.

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Best Thanksgiving Spaghetti Squash Recipes

If you want to choose just a few recipes for your Thanksgiving menu, these are excellent options:

• Garlic Butter Spaghetti Squash – simple and family-friendly
• Brown Butter Sage Spaghetti Squash – classic fall flavor
• Spaghetti Squash with Cranberries and Pecans – festive and colorful
• Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole – perfect for a crowd
• Maple Butter Spaghetti Squash – sweet and comforting
• Spaghetti Squash with Bacon – savory and smoky
• Spaghetti Squash Alfredo – creamy and indulgent
• Spaghetti Squash with Goat Cheese and Cranberries – elegant holiday side
• Spaghetti Squash Stuffing – creative Thanksgiving twist
• Creamy Spaghetti Squash with Mushrooms – rich and earthy

Tips for Cooking Spaghetti Squash

1. Roast Instead of Boiling

Roasting concentrates the flavor and helps prevent the squash from becoming watery.

2. Don’t Overcook It

Overcooked spaghetti squash can become mushy. Cook until the flesh is tender but still forms distinct strands.

3. Let It Cool Slightly

After roasting, allow the squash to cool for a few minutes before scraping it into strands. It will be easier to handle.

4. Use a Fork to Create Strands

Run a fork lengthwise through the cooked squash to separate the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.

5. Season Well

Spaghetti squash has a mild flavor, so garlic, butter, Parmesan, herbs, maple syrup, and spices can make a big difference.

6. Don’t Add Too Much Liquid

If you’re making a creamy spaghetti squash recipe, add sauce gradually. Too much liquid can make the strands watery.

Can You Make Spaghetti Squash Ahead of Time?

Yes. Spaghetti squash is an excellent make-ahead Thanksgiving vegetable.

You can roast the squash one or two days ahead, scrape the flesh into strands, and refrigerate it in an airtight container.

When you’re ready to serve, warm the strands in a skillet with butter, olive oil, sauce, or your desired seasonings.

For casseroles, you can also assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it just before dinner.

How to Store Leftover Spaghetti Squash

Place cooked spaghetti squash in an airtight container and refrigerate it.

Keep sauces and toppings separate when possible to maintain the best texture.

Cooked spaghetti squash can also be frozen, although the strands may become somewhat softer after thawing.

How to Reheat Spaghetti Squash

For the best texture, reheat spaghetti squash in a skillet over medium-low heat.

Add a small amount of butter, olive oil, or sauce to prevent it from drying out.

You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook spaghetti squash?

Roasting is one of the easiest methods because it produces flavorful, tender strands without adding excess water.

How long does spaghetti squash take to roast?

A medium spaghetti squash generally takes around 35–45 minutes at 400°F, although the exact cooking time depends on its size.

Can I cook spaghetti squash ahead of Thanksgiving?

Yes. Roast the squash ahead of time, scrape it into strands, and refrigerate it in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it.

Can I use spaghetti squash instead of pasta?

Yes. Spaghetti squash is often used as a vegetable alternative to pasta. It works especially well with pesto, Alfredo sauce, marinara, butter, and Parmesan.

What flavors go well with spaghetti squash?

Garlic, butter, Parmesan, sage, thyme, rosemary, pesto, mushrooms, spinach, cranberries, pecans, maple syrup, bacon, and sausage all pair well with spaghetti squash.

Is spaghetti squash good for Thanksgiving?

Absolutely. Its mild flavor and noodle-like texture make it a versatile Thanksgiving side dish that can complement traditional holiday foods.

Can spaghetti squash be made vegan?

Yes. Use olive oil or plant-based butter and replace cheese and cream with dairy-free alternatives.

How do I keep spaghetti squash from getting watery?

Roast rather than boil it, avoid overcooking, and allow excess moisture to evaporate before adding sauces.

Can I freeze cooked spaghetti squash?

Yes. Place cooled strands in freezer-safe containers or bags. Keep in mind that the texture may become softer after thawing.

What can I serve with spaghetti squash on Thanksgiving?

Spaghetti squash pairs well with turkey, roasted chicken, stuffing, gravy, green beans, Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce, dinner rolls, and fall salads.

Final Thoughts

These 21 easy Thanksgiving spaghetti squash recipes prove that this versatile fall vegetable can be so much more than a simple side dish.

For an easy recipe, try Garlic Butter Spaghetti Squash or Parmesan Spaghetti Squash. For classic Thanksgiving flavors, Brown Butter Sage Spaghetti Squash, Maple Cranberry Spaghetti Squash, and Spaghetti Squash with Cranberries and Pecans are excellent choices.

If you’re serving a crowd, try the Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole or Spaghetti Squash Stuffing. For a hearty vegetarian option, Spaghetti Squash with Mushrooms, Pesto Spaghetti Squash, or Creamy Spaghetti Squash Alfredo are delicious choices.

With its tender strands, mild flavor, and ability to pair with both sweet and savory ingredients, spaghetti squash is a wonderful addition to any Thanksgiving menu.