Name: Air Fryer Cacio e Pepe Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-493053H14M8S
Total time: PT-493053H14M8S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lb.), halved lengthwise; 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling; 2 tbsp. grated Parmesan, plus more for serving; 3/4 tsp. kosher salt; 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more for serving; Torn fresh basil leaves, torn, for serving

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Introduction

This Air Fryer Cacio e Pepe Spaghetti Squash is a light and flavorful twist on a classic Italian pasta dish. Using spaghetti squash as a base makes it a low-carb, gluten-free alternative that’s easy to prepare and deliciously cheesy with a peppery kick.

Two halves of yellow spaghetti squash sit on a large white plate with light pinkish veining, each filled with shredded squash strands forming the bottom layer which is bright yellow and slightly wet. On top of the strands is a layer of grated white cheese, sprinkled with ground black pepper, giving a speckled black-and-white look. Small green basil leaves are scattered over the cheese layer and the squash edges. A silver fork with a wooden handle lies to the right side of the plate. The plate rests on a wooden table with an empty white plate and a glass of light yellow liquid nearby. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lb.), halved lengthwise
2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

2 tbsp. grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
3/4 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more
Torn fresh basil leaves, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Place one half of the spaghetti squash cut side down in the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and golden. Repeat with the other half.
Step 2: Using a fork, scrape the inside of the cooked squash to create spaghetti-like strands and transfer them to a medium bowl. Reserve the shells if you want to serve in them.
Step 3: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to the bowl. Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Spoon the cacio e pepe spaghetti squash mixture back into the reserved shells or divide it onto plates. Drizzle with additional olive oil, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and black pepper, then garnish with torn fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, stir in a small knob of butter when mixing the squash with Parmesan and pepper.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Try topping with toasted pine nuts for added texture.
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can roast the squash cut side down on a baking sheet at 400°F (204°C) for about 40 minutes.

Storage

Store leftover cacio e pepe spaghetti squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water to keep it moist.

How to Serve

A cooked spaghetti squash half filled with shredded squash strands that look pale yellow to light orange. The squash shell is a smooth, medium yellow-orange, slightly browned around edges, and forms the base layer. The top layer is the soft, stringy inside of the squash spread across the cut surface, showing a mix of yellow and white shredded strands with a moist texture. It sits inside a black air fryer basket, which has a grid pattern and slightly rounded edges, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spaghetti squash for this recipe?

Fresh spaghetti squash works best because it cooks evenly and has a better texture. Frozen squash tends to become mushy, so it’s not ideal for this dish.

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done?

The squash is ready when it’s tender and you can easily pierce the skin with a fork. The inside will also be golden and the strands should separate easily when scraped.