Buttery Garlic-Parmesan Spaghetti Squash with Crispy Bacon

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This will ensure the oven is at the right temperature by the time you're ready to bake the squash. While the oven is warming up, line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Prepare Spaghetti Squash

Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds. Removing the seeds now will save you from having to do it later when the squash is hot.

3. Bake Spaghetti Squash

Place the squash halves cut side down on the prepared baking sheet. By baking the squash with the cut side down, the steam gets trapped inside, helping to soften the flesh. Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the squash is tender enough to be easily squeezed.

4. Prepare Garlic Butter

While the squash is baking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.

5. Combine Squash with Garlic Butter

Once the squash is done baking, let it cool slightly before handling. Using a fork, scoop out the flesh of the squash into the skillet with the garlic-butter mixture. The flesh should come out in strands that resemble spaghetti. Add the chopped parsley and three-quarters of the grated Parmesan cheese, then toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Garnish

Transfer the spaghetti squash mixture to a serving dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately, enjoying the rich flavors of buttery garlic, tangy Parmesan, and crispy bacon in every bite.