Spaghetti Squash Pizzas

If I could, I would eat pizza every day. Unfortunately, my doctor says that’s probably not the best choice. Therefore, I often fill the void in my heart with pizza-inspired recipes like pizza salad and pizza soup. These spaghetti squash pizzas are the latest healthy alternative I’m enjoying, and they’re just as tasty as the real deal.

What I love most about this recipe is the presentation. The spaghetti squash is sliced into thick round slices, which makes each serving look like a miniature uncut pizza. The slices are roasted in the oven, and then the middle of each squash slice is shredded. After they’re topped with pizza sauce, cheese and any toppings your heart desires, the pizzas are then returned to the oven for a final bake. The end result is a healthy, low-carb alternative to pizza that’s delicious, satisfying and endlessly versatile.

Ingredients for Spaghetti Squash Pizzas

• Spaghetti squash: Spaghetti squash is a vegetable superhero. Squash recipes are typically lower in calories and carbohydrates while supplying a good amount of fiber, vitamin A and antioxidants. The veggie makes a great substitute for pasta, bread and potatoes in many recipes, and in this case, it functions as a healthy pizza crust.
• Olive oil: Before roasting, drizzle the squash rounds with a bit of olive oil. It helps the squash brown and improves its flavor.
• Pizza sauce: Top each squash round with a few generous spoonfuls of pizza sauce. Use homemade pizza sauce if you have time, or choose your favorite brand of pizza sauce from the supermarket.
• Cheese: You can’t have pizza without cheese! A duo of mozzarella and Parmesan offers a traditional take, but you could opt for provolone, Asiago, Romano or even goat cheese, if desired.
• Seasonings: Before roasting, the squash is seasoned simply with salt and pepper, and then each pizza is finished with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
• Toppings: Dress your pizzas with any of your favorite pizza toppings—from the classics to ones that are totally out there.

Directions

Step 1: Slice, scoop and season

Preheat the oven to 400°F with your oven rack in the middle position. Line two sheet pans with parchment.

Using a sharp knife, slice the ends from the spaghetti squash. Next, cut the squash into slices that are 1-1/2 inches thick. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds from the center of each slice, then arrange the squash slices on the prepared pans. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Editor’s Tip: Cutting spaghetti squash can be tricky, especially when precision is required. Make sure you have a sharp knife to complete the task. If you’re struggling with the tough skin, pierce the skin with a few holes and then cook the spaghetti squash in the microwave, whole, for four to five minutes to soften it. You should be able to get four or five slices per squash.

Step 2: Bake and shred

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the squash is tender. Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then use a fork to shred the squash into strands within each ring. Take care not to tear the outer skin. Spread the squash evenly within each ring.

Step 3: Add toppings

Next, divide the pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese and Parmesan evenly between the squash rounds. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning. Finish with any additional desired toppings.

Editor’s Tip: About 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce should do the trick for each squash round.

Step 4: Bake until melted and bubbly

Return to the oven for five to six minutes until the cheese is melted. Then, turn on the broiler and cook for one to two minutes or until the cheese is lightly golden and bubbly. Remove promptly. Serve warm.

Spaghetti Squash Pizza Variations

• Replace the sauce: Rather than red sauce, try topping your spaghetti squash pizzas with a drizzle of pesto or a few spoonfuls of Alfredo sauce.
• Make vegetarian squash pizzas: Top your pizzas with wilted spinach, marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers and Kalamata olives. For a Greek-inspired spaghetti squash pizza, also add feta.
• Bake a barbecue chicken squash pizza: Start with a few tablespoons of your favorite barbecue sauce, then top the squash pizzas with pieces of grilled chicken. Add thinly sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, pineapple, or a bit of smoked cheddar or Gouda to finish.
• Play with more topping ideas: For more inspiration, check out the toppings on our favorite specialty pizzas.

How to Store Spaghetti Squash Pizzas

Leftover spaghetti squash pizza should be stored in an airtight food storage container with a lid and kept refrigerated.

How long do spaghetti squash pizzas last?

Leftover spaghetti squash pizzas will stay fresh for three or four days in the refrigerator.

How should you reheat spaghetti squash pizzas?

Spaghetti squash pizzas may be warmed on a parchment-lined sheet pan in a 350° oven until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on a microwave-safe plate.

Spaghetti Squash Pizza Tips

Can you make pizza-stuffed spaghetti squash another way?

If you’re not concerned about making the squash resemble pizza and simply want it to taste like pizza, you can cut each squash in half lengthwise and make pizza-stuffed spaghetti squash. Roast and shred each half as directed, then top each spaghetti squash boat with pizza toppings and bake until the cheese is melted.

How many squash pizzas do you serve per person?

A single spaghetti squash should yield between four and five slices. Since spaghetti squash pizza isn’t as filling as traditional pizza, most people will probably need two or three squash pizzas to be satisfied.

What else can you serve with spaghetti squash pizza?

Round out squash pizza night with a selection of healthy sides. A garden salad would keep things fresh and light, while a platter of baked chicken wings would add bulk and protein to your meal.