Microwaving butternut squash is a quick and easy way to cook this nutritious winter squash. The key to microwaving butternut squash successfully is knowing how to prep the squash properly and use the right cooking techniques. With a few simple tricks, you can easily microwave butternut squash to tender perfection in just minutes.
Some of the key benefits of microwaving butternut squash include:
- It’s incredibly fast – you can cook butternut squash from start to finish in under 15 minutes in the microwave.
- It requires minimal prep work – all you need to do is peel, seed and cube the squash.
- It’s convenient – you can cook it right in the microwave with no extra pots or pans needed.
- The cleanup is easy since you aren’t dirtying multiple dishes and cookware.
- It retains nutrients well when compared to boiling or baking.
- You can customize flavors easily by adding spices, herbs or other ingredients.
Follow these simple steps for microwave butternut squash success:
Prep the Squash
Start by buying a good quality butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has no bruises or soft spots. Once you get it home, prep it by:
- Cutting it in half lengthwise and scooping out the seeds and strings.
- Peeling it with a vegetable peeler or sharp knife to remove the tough outer skin.
- Chopping it into 1-inch cubes.
Be sure your squash cubes are chopped evenly so they cook at the same rate. You can leave the skin on for added nutrition if you wish.
Arrange on a Microwave-Safe Dish
Place the chopped squash in a single layer on a microwave-safe baking dish or bowl. Make sure the dish is big enough to allow space between the pieces – crowded squash won’t cook evenly.
You can line the dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup if desired. Avoid using plastic wrap or paper towels which can stick to the hot squash after cooking.
Add a Small Amount of Liquid
Adding a tablespoon or two of water to the squash helps it steam and prevents it from drying out in the microwave. You can also use chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor.
Microwave in Stages
Microwaving the squash in short 2-4 minute intervals is key for even cooking. Stir or rearrange halfway through for the best results.
Whole squash cubes take 10-15 minutes total cooking time based on your microwave wattage. Here are suggested microwave times for 1-inch cubes:
| Microwave Wattage | Time |
|---|---|
| 1000 watts | Cook for 5 minutes, stir, then 3 more minutes |
| 850 watts | Cook for 5 minutes, stir, then 4 more minutes |
| 700 watts | Cook for 6 minutes, stir, then 4 more minutes |
| 650 watts | Cook for 7 minutes, stir, then 5 more minutes |
Check for doneness after the last cooking interval – the cubes should be just fork tender but not mushy. Add 1-2 more minutes if needed.
Seasoning and Serving
Once cooked, you can toss the squash with herbs, spices, brown butter or other flavorings of your choice. Maple syrup, chopped pecans or a drizzle of cream make tasty finishing touches too.
Serve the microwave butternut squash as a simple side dish or use it in soups, stews, pasta dishes, risottos and more. It will keep refrigerated for 4-5 days.
Tips for the Best Results
Follow these microwaving tips for perfectly cooked butternut squash every time:
- Use squash that is ripe and firm – avoid ones with soft spots.
- Cut evenly sized 1-inch cubes so it cooks uniformly.
- Don’t overload the microwave dish – leave space between cubes.
- Stir or rearrange halfway through cooking.
- Use microwave-safe cookware like glass or ceramic.
- Add a small amount of liquid like water or broth.
- Start with shorter cooking times and add more as needed.
- Let it stand 2-3 minutes after cooking before serving.
Common Microwaving Mistakes
Watch out for these common microwaving mistakes when cooking butternut squash:
- Not cutting into uniform pieces – oddly shaped pieces won’t cook evenly.
- Overcrowding the squash – tight quarters prevent proper heating.
- Cooking too long – this leads to mushy, waterlogged squash.
- Not stirring during cooking – stir for even cooking results.
- Using too much liquid – just 1-2 tbsp water is enough.
- Not covering with a lid or vented plastic wrap – the cover traps steam for faster cooking.
Microwave Butternut Squash Recipe
This easy microwave butternut squash recipe results in tender, flavorful squash in just 10 minutes:
Ingredients:
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 3 cups)
- 1 tbsp water or broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage or 1 tsp dried sage
Instructions:
- Place squash cubes in a microwave-safe dish. Add water or broth. Cover with vented plastic wrap.
- Microwave on high for 5 minutes. Carefully remove from microwave and stir.
- Return to microwave and cook 5 more minutes until fork tender.
- Remove from microwave. Stir in butter and let sit 2 minutes to absorb.
- Toss with brown sugar, salt, pepper and sage until coated.
- Serve warm.
Additional Flavor Variations
Customize your microwaved butternut squash by mixing in any of the following:
- Maple Syrup – for sweetness
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – for crunch
- Fresh Thyme or Rosemary – for herby flavor
- Cinnamon – for warmth
- Nutmeg – for spice
- Parmesan – for richness
- Chopped Apple – for tartness
- Lemon or Lime Juice – for zest
Let your taste preferences guide you and get creative with flavors!
Uses for Microwave Butternut Squash
Microwaved butternut squash is versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory recipes:
- Toss with pasta, olive oil, veggies, Parmesan
- Add to stews, chilis, soups
- Mix into oatmeal or yogurt
- Blend into butternut squash soup
- Layer in a gratin or casserole
- Stir into risotto or polenta
- Top with an egg for breakfast
- Make into butternut squash fries
- Add to a quiche or frittata
- Roast with maple syrup and spices
- Puree with applesauce or pumpkin for baked goods
Microwaved squash stays fresh for 4-5 days refrigerated so you can use it throughout the week. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about microwaving butternut squash:
Can you microwave butternut squash whole?
It’s best to cut large squash into smaller pieces before microwaving. A whole squash is too thick to cook through properly. Cut it in half and scoop out the seeds, then chop into 1-inch cubes.
How long does it take to microwave butternut squash?
1-inch squash cubes take 10-15 minutes total cooking time, microwaving in 2-4 minute intervals. Larger chunks may need a few more minutes. Check for tenderness after 10 minutes.
Can you microwave butternut squash without water?
A small amount of water helps the squash steam so it doesn’t dry out. Use 1-2 tbsp water or broth per 3-4 cups of squash. You can cook it without any water but stir frequently.
Do you have to peel butternut squash before microwaving?
Peeling is recommended but not essential. The skin may toughen up when microwaved. For easier eating, peel before cooking.
Can you microwave butternut squash straight from the freezer?
Yes, frozen butternut squash cubes can go straight into the microwave but add an extra minute or two to the cook time. Stir frequently for even thawing and cooking.
Conclusion
Microwaving butternut squash makes an easy, fast, and healthy weeknight side dish. With the right techniques, you can achieve tender and flavorful squash from the convenience of your microwave.
Be sure to prep the squash properly, use short cooking intervals, add liquid, and stir midway through. In just 10-15 minutes you can enjoy delicious butternut squash with your favorite seasonings and mix-ins. Microwaved butternut squash brings versatility to soups, pastas, grain bowls and more.