How to Microwave Butternut Squash
Prep Time
3 minsCook Time
7-8 minsFree Time
to watch a bit of tv
Cooking butternut squash in the microwave is a quick and easy way to prepare this versatile vegetable. The microwave helps to soften the squash's tough outer skin, making it easier to scrape out the pulp for soups or a quick mash.
We recommend a Deep dish for microwaving butternut squash. This dish has tall, sloped sides to accommodate the entire squash. Plus, the silicone-lined lid traps moisture inside of the squash, yielding tender and sweet pulp.
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Medium Deep Dish
The Medium Shallow Dish
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 10 -14 oz (400g) small Butternut squash
- Kosher salt, to taste
Preparation
- Cut squash into large pieces and remove the seeds. Transfer to an Anyday and cover with the lid (knob lifted).
- Cook in the microwave for 7-8 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Allow to cool slightly. Peel off the skin and discard. Season with salt, if desired.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Add Parmesan, black pepper, and butter for a delicious and simple side dish.
- Blend the cooked squash into a thick puree to use as a spread, dip, or garnish.
- Mash cooked squash with brown butter and salt for an easy Thanksgiving side.
Recipe notes
- This recipe works well for peeled or unpeeled squash. We find that you get more squash if you cook and peel off the skin later.
- For pre-cut butternut squash, reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes and check for doneness.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Microwave Match Up: Butternut Squash
See for yourself— microwaving butternut squash is simply faster, start to finish.
| Appliance | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| Microwave in an Anyday dish | 7-8 mins |
| Oven* | 45-50 mins |
| Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)* | 25 mins |
| Stovetop* | 20-30 mins |
Step by Step: Microwaving Butternut Squash
All You Need to Know About Microwaving Butternut Squash
How long does a butternut squash take to cook in the microwave?
| Ingredient | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 14 oz (400g) butternut squash | 7-8 mins |
| 28 oz (800g) butternut squash | 9-10 mins |
| 42 oz (1200g) butternut squash | 17-18 mins |
What’s the healthiest way to cook butternut squash?
Steaming is the healthiest way to cook butternut squash. Steaming it in the microwave cooks squash quickly and easily, with no pot of water to boil or pan to clean up later. By steaming the squash in its moisture, you’re keeping more nutrients inside of the vegetable.
Do you have to peel butternut squash before cooking?
You don’t have to peel the squash before cooking! The skin comes off very easily once it has been steamed in the Anyday. Peeling is a great idea if you will be using the squash in soups or puree. Always remove the seeds before cooking to avoid an undesired texture and any loud popping sounds. The microwave will create pressure inside of the seeds, causing them to burst and make loud noises.
How to tell when a butternut squash is cooked through?
Butternut squash is usually done when fork-tender. Use a fork to gently pierce the surface of the pulp. If there is no resistance, the squash should be cooked through. If it’s difficult to pierce the pulp with a fork, continue cooking in the microwave for an additional 2-3 minutes.
How to freeze microwaved butternut squash?
Like most frozen vegetables, squash needs to be cooked before freezing. Cook the squash using the directions above and allow it to cool completely. You can freeze the squash with or without skin, laid flat on a tray without touching each other. Pop the tray into the freezer, and when solid (about 6-8 hours later), transfer to a freezer-safe storage bag. Pop in the freezer and store for 1-2 months. To reheat, simply place the chunks back in the Anyday and microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.
