Instant Pot Butternut Squash

Elaine Gordon

Welcome! Get ready to explore the delightfully easy world of cooking butternut squash in an Instant Pot. You may be wondering why this winter squash gets so much love. It’s versatile, nutritious, and can easily enhance numerous dishes. Plus, using an Instant Pot makes the cooking process quicker and simpler, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your food!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 8

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings

Equipment

Ingredients

1 butternut squash: Choose one that feels heavy for its size with smooth skin.
1 cup water: This is essential for steaming in the Instant Pot.
Olive oil optional: Adds a touch of richness and flavor.
Optional seasoning: Think rosemary or thyme for a burst of aroma and a pinch of sea salt and cracked pepper.
Optional sweetness: Brown sugar or maple syrup to balance the savory notes.

Instructions

Making butternut squash in the Instant Pot is a straightforward endeavor. With just a few steps, you'll have a delicious dish ready in no time!

Step 1: Prep the Squash

First, you need to handle the squash. Halve it lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. If it’s stubborn, you can cook it in chunks. Just peel, remove the seeds, and cut it into 1-inch pieces. This flexibility makes it easy regardless of your skill level.

Step 2: Fill the Instant Pot

Next, pour a cup of water into the Instant Pot. This is crucial for the steaming process. Place the squash halves or chunks on the steaming rack or directly in the pot.

Step 3: Season It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over the squash. You can sprinkle your choice of seasonings now or wait until it's cooked. If you opt for sweetness, maple syrup or brown sugar can be drizzled later for a caramelized finish.

Step 4: Set the Pressure

Close the lid on the Instant Pot and secure it. Set the valve to sealing. Now, select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ option. Cook on high pressure for 7–12 minutes, depending on whether you used halves or chunks.

Step 5: Quick Release and Serve

Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting. When the steam has fully released, cautiously open the lid. The squash should be fork-tender and ready to enjoy!

Notes

Cut Uniformly: Ensure pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
Choose Fresh Squash: Look for heavy squash with a firm skin to avoid bland flavors.
Herb Varieties: Experiment with herbs. Try sage or dill for a different kick.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the clock. Overcooked squash can turn mushy.

Use the Right Size Pot: Ensure your Instant Pot is large enough for the amount of squash you have.

Nutrition

Serving: 4g

Keyword Instant Pot Butternut Squash

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