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A naturally low-carb twist on Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, our Cheddar Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti Squash recipe is rich, flavorful and easy enough for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender roasted spaghetti squash coated in a homemade ranch cream sauce is loaded with ranch-seasoned chicken, crispy bacon and plenty of cheddar cheese for an indulgent-tasting meal that is sneakily veggie-packed.

Crack Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Okay, so let’s just get this out of the way – I hate the name of this recipe, but unfortunately for me as a food blogger, the combination of cheddar, bacon and ranch seasoning has taken on this nickname. I hate it, so as much of a mouthful as saying “Cheddar, Chicken, Bacon, Ranch Spaghetti Squash” I would much prefer writing that out fifteen times.

Or, what about a cute nickname? CCBR? Kind of like how Creedance Clearwater Revival goes by CCR, this could be the yummy food equivalent of a hip band acronym.

Moving on, our Cheddar Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti Squash (CCBRSS, I guess) is a healthier take on the viral “crack” spaghetti, with lighter, fresher ingredients without sacrificing any indulgent flavors!

Roasted spaghetti squash’s tender, noodle-like texture that soaks up a tangy, herbed ranch cream sauce made with sour cream, cream cheese and chicken broth. Well-seasoned chicken, salty bacon, creamy and unctuous cheddar cheese and a light finish of green onions helps round out the flavor profile and results in a rich and hearty meal that is as good for you as it is tasty.

Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash FAQs

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is cooked through? It’s ready when a fork easily pierces the flesh and the strands separate without resistance.

Can I microwave the spaghetti squash instead of roasting it? Yes, cut the spaghetti squash in half, remove the seeds, and place it cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish with a bit of water. Cook for about 10–12 minutes, until tender.

Can I prep the spaghetti squash ahead of time? You can roast the squash up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet before adding the garlic butter and Parmesan.

Why add water to the baking pan? A bit of water helps create steam in the oven, which softens the squash and keeps it from drying out as it roasts.

What’s the best way to avoid watery spaghetti squash? Let the roasted squash rest cut-side down on a paper towel for a few minutes before scraping it into strands. This helps absorb excess moisture and keeps the sauce from thinning out.

How to store leftover spaghetti squash: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or extra butter.

Can I freeze leftover spaghetti squash? Yes, but the texture will soften slightly after thawing. Freeze portions in airtight containers and reheat in a skillet rather than the microwave for best results. (This set of freezer containers is a crazy bargain.)

Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti Squash Ingredients

• Spaghetti Squash, approximately 2lb
• Bacon
• Chicken, chopped
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Ranch Seasoning <– grab our homemade ranch seasoning recipe here
• Chicken Broth, as needed
• Cream Cheese, softened (as desired)
• Sour Cream
• Milk, as desired (optional)
• Chopped Green Onions, optional garnish
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese, optional garnish

Scroll down to the printable recipe card for full measurements.

Tip: Save a spoonful of bacon fat to flavor the chicken and sauce – it adds a subtle smokiness that ties the whole dish together.

Kitchen Tools You May Find Helpful

• Cookie Sheet
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Cast Iron Skillet <– I love the versatility of a good cast-iron pan – you can make everything from eggs to dessert in them and they transition easily from the stove to the oven. This one is pre-seasoned and great for even heating
• Shallow Bowls
• Kitchen Tongs
• Meat Thermometer <– This is the meat thermometer I have been using for the past 6 years – I’ve never had to change a battery and it’s super sturdy and reliable. It was a bit pricey, but unlike the $15 models that you can buy, this one isn’t going to need replacement. It is waterproof and comes with a two-year warranty. (Thermoworks also has a $15 pocket-sized model if you want to try that out first before investing in the MK4.)
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula <– I like these spatulas because they are one solid piece and don’t have removable heads for bacteria to get trapped underneath. Plus they are heat-resistant and have a lifetime warranty

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti Squash

Preheat oven to 400F.

Cut the spaghetti squash through the middle lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. (Discard the seeds.)

Place the spaghetti squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and add 1/4″ to 1/2″ of water to the baking sheet.

Bake for 30-40 minutes, until water is absorbed and squash is a lightly golden orange.

When the spaghetti squash is fully cooked, use a spoon to scoop out the spaghetti squash’s noodles and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon to your preferred level of doneness.

Remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.

Season the chopped chicken with salt and pepper and half of the ranch seasoning, then add to the hot bacon grease and cook until browned all over and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (approximately 6-8 minutes).

Remove the chicken to a clean plate as you prepare the ranch sauce.

Wipe out the skillet and add the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then add the sour cream and cream cheese and stir as the cream cheese melts. Add a bit more broth or milk to achieve a smooth consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

Season with ranch seasoning, to taste.

Stir in the spaghetti squash until completely coated with the sauce.

Chop the bacon and add all but a couple tablespoons to the skillet, along with the chicken. Stir to combine and continue to cook until chicken is reheated through.

Serve with additional garnishes of bacon, cheddar cheese and green onions or parsley.

Makes 4-6 servings.

Pin this Easy Low-Carb Spaghetti Squash for an Indulgent-tasting meal that is sneakily healthy:

Grab your free printable recipe card for our Cheddar Chicken Bacon Ranch Spaghetti Squash recipe:

I hope your family loves this easy crack spaghetti recipe as much as mine does! (As much as I hate the name!)

For more ways to enjoy chicken, check out our full chicken recipe collection here: