Learn how to safely serve spaghetti squash to babies 6 months and up using a baby led weaning approach, including how to cook spaghetti squash and sauce pairing ideas.
This post has been written and medically reviewed by Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist).
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Can Babies Have Spaghetti Squash?
Yes! Babies can have spaghetti squash as soon as they are developmentally ready for solids, around 6 months of age. Spaghetti squash, which can be pulled into strands that resemble spaghetti once cooked, is a great food for baby led weaning.
Baby Health Benefits
Like other winter squash, spaghetti squash contains several nutrients, including1:
- Fiber - great for baby's digestion and gut health
- Vitamin C - helps baby absorb iron
- Carotenoids - compounds that get converted to vitamin A in the body and are good for the immune system, eyesight, and also function as antioxidants with anti-cancer properties
Tip: Spaghetti squash is great vehicle for nutrient-rich sauces, so use it as an opportunity to make the most out of baby's meal by pairing it with a protein and/or iron-rich sauce such as bolognese!
How To Serve Spaghetti Squash for Baby Led Weaning (6+ months)
To serve spaghetti squash to baby led weaning babies, ensure it is thoroughly cooked, then use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands. Chop the strands into pieces no longer than 1 inch. Offer chopped pieces in a suction bowl or a rimmed plate and allow baby to scoop them up with hands. Once baby starts practicing with utensils (around 12-18 months), you can offer a fork to practice with. Around 12-18 months, you can also offer strands in longer pieces.
How To Prepare Spaghetti Squash
I find the easiest, most fool-proof way to prepare spaghetti squash is to roast in in the oven. Here's how to do it, step by step.
How to Cut Spaghetti Squash
- First make a flat surface by cutting off and discarding the stem end. Lay the flat end on the cutting board and cut the squash in half lengthwise.
- Use a spoon to scoop the seeds from the center of each half.
Tip: To make cutting spaghetti squash easier, you can pierce a few holes in it and microwave for 2-3 minutes to soften it before cutting. It also helps to have the right knife! Use a large, very sharp knife such as an 8-inch chef's knife.
How To Roast Spaghetti Squash
- Lightly coat the cut side of each half with olive oil (optional), and lay the cut sides down on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone baking mat.
- Roast in the oven at 400°F for 30-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. The cook time will vary based on the size and age of the squash.
- Once cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh from the skin into strands.
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Easy Spaghetti Squash for Babies
Fail-proof roasted spaghetti squash is easy to make and perfect for babies and toddlers 6 months and up.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 squash 1x
- Category: side dish
- Method: baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (2-3 lbs)
- 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the stem end from the spaghetti squash so you have a flat surface. Place the flat end down and cut the squash lengthwise in half.
- Use a spoon to scoop the seeds from the squash.
- Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and rub to evenly coat the insides. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone baking mat.
- Roast for 30-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Once cooled to the touch, use a fork to pull the squash into strands and separate from the skin.
- Serve with your favorite sauce.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Cooking time will vary based on the size and age of the squash.
- To make cutting easier, you can pierce the whole squash with a sharp knife a few times and microwave for 1-2 minutes to soften the skin and flesh just a bit.
FAQ
No, cooked spaghetti squash is not a choking hazard. Be sure to cook it thoroughly, and always supervise closely any time baby is eating.
No, spaghetti squash is not a common allergen. People with Oral Allergy Syndrome may react to spaghetti squash, which usually causes short term itching or tingling in the mouth.
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