How To Make Squash Noodles

You can make squash noodles by spiralizing fresh squash into long, thin strands that mimic the look and feel of traditional pasta.
 
It’s a simple, healthy way to enjoy your favorite sauces without the heavy carbs.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to make squash noodles that hold up well in a hot skillet, you’re in the right place.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through how to make squash noodles step by step, plus tips so they don’t turn mushy.
 
Let’s get cooking.
 

How to Make Squash Noodles (The Basic Method)

Learning how to make squash noodles starts with picking the right squash and the right tool.
 
Here’s how to make squash noodles that turn out firm and tasty every time:
 

1. Choose the Right Squash

To make squash noodles, firm varieties work best.
 
Zucchini and yellow squash are the classics because they’re low in water and hold their shape.
 
Butternut squash and spaghetti squash also make great squash noodles, though they need a different approach.
 
Pick squash that’s firm, heavy for its size, and free of soft spots.
 

2. Grab a Spiralizer or Julienne Peeler

The easiest way to make squash noodles is with a spiralizer.
 
If you don’t have one, a julienne peeler or a sharp knife works too.
 
Just cut the squash into thin, even strips so your squash noodles cook at the same rate.
 

3. Trim and Prep the Squash

Wash your squash and cut off both ends.
 
If you’re using a spiralizer, you don’t need to peel zucchini or yellow squash.
 
For butternut squash, peel it first since the skin is tough.
 
Then spiralize or slice the squash into noodle shapes.
 

4. Salt and Drain the Noodles

This step is key when you make squash noodles.
 
Squash holds a lot of water, and nobody wants soggy noodles.
 
Toss your squash noodles with a pinch of salt and let them sit in a colander for 15 to 20 minutes.
 
Then pat them dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
 
This draws out excess moisture so your squash noodles stay firm.
 

5. Cook Them Briefly

You can eat squash noodles raw, but a quick cook makes them more pasta-like.
 
Sauté them in a hot pan for 2 to 3 minutes, just until they soften slightly.
 
Or blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain right away.
 
Don’t overcook them or your squash noodles will turn to mush.
 

Different Ways to Make Squash Noodles

Once you know how to make squash noodles, you can switch things up based on the squash you have.
 
Here are a few popular methods:
 

1. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)

Zucchini is the go-to for making squash noodles because it’s mild and quick to cook.
 
Spiralize it, salt it, and sauté it for a couple of minutes.
 
These squash noodles pair well with marinara, pesto, or a light garlic oil.
 

2. Butternut Squash Noodles

Butternut squash noodles are a bit sturdier and slightly sweet.
 
You can roast them in the oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes or sauté them until tender.
 
They’re great with sage, brown butter, or a creamy sauce.
 

3. Spaghetti Squash Noodles

Spaghetti squash is a little different because its flesh naturally shreds into strands.
 
To make squash noodles this way, roast the whole squash, cut it open, and scrape out the inside with a fork.
 
The result looks just like spaghetti, which makes it a fun swap for pasta night.
 

Tips So Your Squash Noodles Don’t Get Soggy

The number one problem people have when they make squash noodles is sogginess.
 
Here’s how to avoid it:
 

1. Salt and Drain Every Time

Don’t skip the salting step.
 
It pulls out the water that would otherwise pool in your pan.
 
Give your squash noodles at least 15 minutes to drain.
 

2. Cook on High Heat, Fast

A screaming hot pan cooks squash noodles fast without steaming them.
 
Use a little oil and keep the noodles moving.
 
Two or three minutes is usually all you need.
 

3. Serve Right Away

Squash noodles don’t hold up well if they sit around.
 
Serve them immediately after cooking so they keep their texture.
 
If you’re meal prepping, store the raw, drained noodles separately and cook them fresh.
 

So, How Do You Make Squash Noodles?

You can make squash noodles by spiralizing firm squash, salting and draining the strands, and cooking them briefly so they stay firm.
 
The process is quick, and once you get the hang of it, you can make squash noodles with zucchini, butternut, or spaghetti squash.
 
Just remember to drain the water, cook fast, and serve right away.
 
With these tips, you’ll know exactly how to make squash noodles that taste great with any sauce you love.