From steaming tender, seasoned squash cubes to cooking squash noodles for a hearty entrée, your microwave can handle prepping butternut squash for just about whatever dish you have in mind. Read on to discover how to microwave butternut squash, learn tips for cutting and seasoning, and find out how to tell if it’s done.
How you cut, peel or season squash before cooking in the microwave depends on what you plan to use it for. For most recipes, you’ll want to cut the squash into halves, quarters or cubes. Alternatively, you can leave it whole and simply score the skin to let steam escape during cooking.
Explore more tips for preparing squash below.
Add water to a microwave-safe dish alongside the squash, which will help steam the dish as it cooks.
Use a large spoon to remove stringy bits and seeds from the cut squash, then consider setting the seeds aside to bake for a savory or sweet snack.
Try sprinkling seasoning or drizzling olive oil onto the squash prior to cooking for a pop of flavor.
In general, larger pieces of squash take longer to become tender in the microwave. Cooking times also depend on the total portion size and your microwave’s settings , so it’s a good idea to check your owner's manual for precise guidance.
Read on for a helpful overview of what to expect when microwaving butternut squash using different preparation methods.
Whole: Place the squash on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 14-16 minutes, or until a fork slides in easily. Don’t forget to poke it with a fork or paring knife beforehand to let the steam escape.
Half: Poke the squash with a fork, then place the squash halves cut-side down on a microwave-safe dish and cook on high for 10-12 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the flesh. If it needs more cooking time, microwave the squash in 2-minute bursts at 50% power until it’s tender.
Maytag ® microwaves have the features you need to prep both ingredients and entire meals for your family. The Brown Function on select Maytag ® microwaves adds a crunchy top layer by using direct heat without microwave cooking power, giving the finishing touch to a meal without having to use an oven. And, with the interior cooking rack included on select Maytag ® models, you’ll have the microwave space you need to cook your whole meal at one time.
Take advantage of your microwave to prepare butternut squash for use in a recipe or as the main dish. Discover how easy it is to cook butternut squash in your microwave with the simple steps below.
Start by peeling the squash, then slice off the top and bottom to remove the stem. Next, cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and then cut it into quarters.
Place the squash cut-side down on a microwave-safe bowl or dish. If you'd like, sprinkle on some seasonings or drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor. Cover the dish with microwave-safe plastic wrap, then poke a few slits to let the steam escape.
In a standard 1,000-watt microwave, cook the squash for about 9-12 minutes. It should be ready when a fork can slide in easily, and you may need to keep microwaving in short bursts until it’s soft enough to enjoy. Check your model-specific owner’s manual for more guidance, as you may need to adjust cooking times or levels based on your microwave’s wattage .
Carefully use oven mitts to remove the squash from the microwave, then let it cool before serving.
Your squash is likely done when it’s tender enough for a fork to slide in easily. If it’s still too firm, simply microwave it in short bursts until it softens. Overcooked squash may turn mushy, but you can still put it to good use. It’s ideal for pureeing, mashing or even making homemade baby food.
Let Maytag ® microwaves take over mealtime with features that serve up the right settings and temperatures for your meal
Maytag ® microwaves feature easy-to-navigate features and a wide range of versatile cooking options. The Air Fry Function on select microwaves uses dual heating elements and a fan to circulate hot air around the included Air Fry basket, crisping and browning food with less oil 1 and without the need to preheat. With the Keep Warm Function on some models, pan-fried or oven-baked foods can stay warm for up to 60 minutes so the whole meal hits the table at once.
Explore Maytag ® kitchen appliances designed to power through mealtime and cleanup and look good while doing it
1. When compared to deep frying.
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