At a glance, spaghetti squash and butternut squash may look quite similar. They are both orange-fleshed winter squashes with a long oval shape. However, there are some key differences between these two types of squash that set them apart.
Appearance
While spaghetti squash and butternut squash share an elongated, pear-like shape, there are visual differences between them:
- Spaghetti squash is typically smaller, ranging from 2-5 lbs compared to butternut squash which is usually between 2-8 lbs.
- The skin of a spaghetti squash is yellow-tan and has an oval/oblong shape whereas butternut squash has a distinctive tan skin with deep grooves running the length of the squash.
- When cut open, spaghetti squash contains many seeds and stringy flesh inside whereas butternut squash seeds are in one end and it has solid, smooth flesh.
- Spaghetti squash is pale yellow inside while butternut squash has a deep orange, almost carrot-like color.
Taste and Texture
The taste and texture of these two types of squash also show noteworthy differences:
- When cooked, the flesh of spaghetti squash separates into noodle-like strands. Butternut squash has a smooth, silky texture.
- Spaghetti squash has a very mild flavor and takes on the taste of whatever spices or sauce it is cooked with. Butternut squash has a richer, deeper sweet flavor.
- Spaghetti squash contains less natural sugars and carbohydrates compared to butternut squash which has a sweeter taste.
| Attribute | Spaghetti Squash | Butternut Squash |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Oval, elongated | Pear-like with grooves |
| Size | 2-5 lbs | 2-8 lbs |
| Skin Color | Yellow-tan | Tan |
| Flesh Color | Pale yellow | Deep orange |
| Texture | Stringy, noodle-like | Smooth, creamy |
| Flavor | Mild | Sweet, nutty |
Nutrition
There are also nutritional differences between spaghetti squash and butternut squash:
- Spaghetti squash is lower in calories and carbohydrates compared to butternut squash.
- Butternut squash contains more than twice the amount of vitamin A and vitamin C than spaghetti squash.
- Butternut squash is higher in potassium, vitamin B6 and folate.
- Spaghetti squash contains more omega-3 fatty acids.
- Both are good sources of fiber, but spaghetti slightly edges out butternut squash.
| Nutrient (per cup) | Spaghetti Squash | Butternut Squash |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 42 | 82 |
| Carbs | 10g | 21g |
| Fiber | 2.2g | 3g |
| Potassium | 494mg | 582mg |
| Vitamin A | 852IU | 21083IU |
| Vitamin C | 12.4mg | 27.7mg |
Uses
Spaghetti squash and butternut squash also differ in common culinary uses:
- Spaghetti squash is often used as a lower-carb substitute for pasta because its flesh shreds into spaghetti-like strands.
- Butternut squash is ideal for soups, stews, baking, roasting and puréeing for its smooth, creamy texture.
- Spaghetti squash is best lightly cooked to maintain the noodle-like consistency. Butternut squash is often cooked down further to soften it.
- Spaghetti squash can be topped with sauces just like pasta. Butternut squash often has spices and flavors added directly to the flesh.
- The mild taste of spaghetti squash allows other ingredients to shine. Butternut squash can stand on its own flavor.
Availability
There are also differences in when these squashes are in season:
- Both are winter squashes with peak seasons in the fall and winter months.
- Butternut squash is one of the longest storing winter squashes, available from October through April.
- Spaghetti squash peak season is late summer through early winter from August through February.
- Spaghetti squash does not store quite as long once harvested compared to butternut squash.
Price
In terms of cost:
- Spaghetti squash tends to be slightly more expensive per pound than butternut squash.
- However, since butternut squash is often larger, the total cost for an entire squash may be more.
- Butternut squash ranges from $1-$3 per pound while spaghetti squash goes for $2-$4 per pound.
- Both are considered budget friendly options compared to other winter squash varieties.
Growing
If growing your own squash, there are a few key differences:
- Spaghetti squash vines spread less than butternut squash vines which can take over a garden.
- Butternut squash prefers a long warm growing season while spaghetti squash can mature faster.
- Butternut squash flowers need to be cross pollinated. Spaghetti squash can self pollinate.
- Butternut squash has a sturdy, hard rind that offers pest protection. Spaghetti squash is more vulnerable to insects.
Conclusion
While both elongated winter squashes, spaghetti squash and butternut squash have distinct differences when it comes to appearance, texture, taste, nutrition, uses, availability, price and growing requirements. The bottom line is no, they are not the same thing. Spaghetti squash works well as a lower carb substitute for noodles and strands nicely when “shredded”. Butternut squash has a sweeter, nuttier flavor and creamier flesh making it ideal for baking, soups and purées. While they look quite similar, these are two unique types of squash that are not interchangeable in recipes or uses.