Yes, you can reheat spaghetti squash, and it holds up better than most vegetables in this regard. The fibrous strands that give it its name are more structurally stable than leafy greens or soft vegetables, so reheating doesn’t reduce them to mush. The main thing to manage is moisture: spaghetti squash releases water as it sits, and reheating without addressing this first produces a watery, flat result.
Can You Reheat Spaghetti Squash?
Yes. Cooked spaghetti squash keeps in the fridge for three to five days in a sealed container. Store the strands separately from any sauce if possible: combined with sauce, the squash absorbs moisture and the strands become softer more quickly. There are no significant food safety concerns specific to squash beyond standard refrigeration and a 75°C (165°F) reheating target.
The Moisture Problem
Spaghetti squash is around 92% water by weight. During roasting, a significant amount evaporates, which concentrates the flavour and firms the strands. As the squash cools and sits in the fridge, it reabsorbs moisture from the surrounding air. When you reheat it, that moisture releases again. If you don’t drain or dry it first, the strands end up sitting in a pool of liquid. The fix is the same as with spinach: press or drain before applying heat.
Reheating Spaghetti Squash in the Microwave
Fast and effective for plain strands or squash with a dry topping.
- Place the strands in a colander or on kitchen paper and press lightly to remove surface moisture.
- Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover loosely (to let steam escape rather than condense back onto the squash).
- Microwave on full power for 60 to 90 seconds per cup of squash.
- Stir and check. Drain any released liquid before serving or adding sauce.
Reheating Spaghetti Squash in the Oven
Better for larger portions and for getting some texture back into the strands.
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Spread the strands in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment. Do not pile them: spread them out so moisture can evaporate.
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Roast for eight to twelve minutes until warm throughout and the edges of the strands start to turn slightly golden.
This method actually improves on plain reheating by driving off extra moisture and adding a slight toasted quality to the strands. It’s the best approach if you’re serving the squash as a pasta substitute where texture matters.
Reheating Spaghetti Squash With Sauce
If the squash is already mixed with tomato sauce, meat sauce, or pesto:
- Microwave: 90 seconds on full power, covered. Stir halfway through.
- Stovetop: add to a pan over medium heat, stir gently for three to four minutes. The sauce protects the strands from direct heat and keeps them moist without making them waterlogged.
Which Method Should You Use?
| Method | Time | Result | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven (190°C, spread out) | 8-12 min | Best texture, slight crisp | Pasta substitute, texture matters |
| Microwave (drained first) | 60-90 sec | Good, fast | Quick meals, going under sauce |
| Stovetop (with sauce) | 3-4 min | Even heat, sauce protects strands | Sauced dishes |
Q: Now that my summer vegetables are growing, I never thought about having leftover spaghetti squash. What is the best way to reheat it? I know I can eat it cold, but I am sure it is just as delicious warmed up for a second meal.
A: Spaghetti squash is a brilliant vegetable to eat cold, but it is just as delicious warmed up for a second meal. The best way to warm this squash up is actually in your microwave, so be sure to take it on the go for your next lunch.
The Microwave
Squash is a delicate vegetable. However, it handles reheating rather well. To reheat your squash, simply add a splash of olive oil or a tablespoon of butter to the container and take it on the go. Simply reheat in the microwave for 45 seconds on medium power. Stir, and continue heating if desired.
The Stovetop
For those of us who would rather not use the microwave, you can always reheat your leftovers in a small saucepan with some water. Add you leftovers and water, and then heat on medium-low for about ten minutes, or warmed through.
Some vegetables like spaghetti squash are fantastic for reheating. You can keep your leftovers for up to five days in your refrigerator, and up to a month in your freezer. With these simple ways to reheat your squash, you can have the taste of summer all year long!