How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

What ingredients do I need for Spaghetti With Spaghetti Squash And Pancetta?

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 spaghetti squash, about 2 pounds, 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided, Kosher salt + freshly ground black pepper, 1 pound spaghetti, and more.

Is Spaghetti With Spaghetti Squash And Pancetta suitable as pasta & noodles?

Yes, Spaghetti With Spaghetti Squash And Pancetta falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

How do I store leftover Spaghetti With Spaghetti Squash And Pancetta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Spaghetti With Spaghetti Squash And Pancetta Recipe

Name: Spaghetti With Spaghetti Squash And Pancetta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 spaghetti squash, about 2 pounds; 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; Kosher salt + freshly ground black pepper; 1 pound spaghetti; 4 ounces thick-cut pancetta or bacon, cut into cubes; 1 small onion, chopped (about 1 cup); 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste; 2 tablespoons diced preserved lemon peel (from about 1/2 a large preserved lemon); 1 cup finely grated pecorino romano (parmesan can be substituted), plus more for serving

Spaghetti With Spaghetti Squash And Pancetta

Eats Now Editorial Team · 261 kcal · Pasta & Noodles

1
Heat oven to 400u00b0 F. Optional step: microwave spaghetti squash for 4 to 5 minutes to make it easier to cut, and to speed up its roasting time.
2
Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Sprinkle cut sides with salt and pepper, and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Roast, cut-side down, on a rimmed baking sheet until the interior is fork tender, about 30 to 40 minutes. Let cool for about 10 minutes, then scoop out the strands with a fork. Set aside 2 cups, saving any remaining squash for another use.
3
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
4
Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add pancetta, and cook, stirring occasionally, until crisp, about 6 to 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer pancetta to a small bowl; set aside. Leave 3 tablespoons of fat in pan, supplementing if needed with olive oil.
5
Over medium heat, saute onion, sage, red pepper flakes, and preserved lemon peel, stirring occasionally, until the onion is lightly golden and tender, about 3 to 5 minutes.
6
While the onion mixture is sauteing, add the spaghetti to the boiling water. Cook according to package directions.
7
When the onion is tender, add the spaghetti squash. Saute a few minutes to lightly caramelize the squash, running the back of your spoon across the squash to increase the surface area that browns and to help the strands relax and dissolve. Ladle in 1 1/2 cups of the spaghetti's cooking water and bring to a moderate simmer, stirring frequently, for another few minutes. Its strands won't completely disappear but will form a light, cohesive sauce with the pasta water.
8
Add the spaghetti to the skillet (reserving another cup of pasta water), and turn the heat to low. Toss together the spaghetti and the sauce until evenly coated, adding more pasta water, if needed. Add the pecorino and toss again until evenly integrated, then add the pancetta. Serve warm, with extra pecorino on the side, if desired.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

Spaghetti With Spaghetti Squash And Pancetta

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions