Baked Squash(Microwave)
A warm, sweet side dish featuring tender baked butternut squash topped with cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, butter, and a slice of apple, perfect for autumn dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the butternut squash into 4 pieces; do not peel and clean out the seeds.
- Mix together butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.
- Place the mixture on top of each squash piece.
- Put a slice of apple on top of each prepared squash piece.
- Cook in the microwave for about 5 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of salt to the butter mixture or swapping in maple syrup for brown sugar. If you don't have butternut squash, acorn or spaghetti squash can be used as a substitute. To save time, you can microwave the squash pieces for a minute or two before applying the topping, ensuring they cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked squash as a delightful side dish alongside roasted meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Toby'S Potato Salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture. This dish is perfect for fall gatherings or as part of a vegetarian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, or use an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This dish is perfect to enjoy as a side or even as part of a meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Squash(Microwave) contains roughly 46 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (18% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the squash pieces and the butter mixture in advance. Assemble the dish and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed if the mixture is cold from the fridge.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
Feel free to experiment by adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a sweet twist. You can also incorporate nuts or seeds on top for added crunch. For a savory version, try substituting the apple with cooked bacon or cheese.
How can I tell when the squash is done cooking?
The squash is done when it is fork-tender, meaning you can easily insert a fork into the flesh. If it's still hard after 5 minutes, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until fully cooked. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the size of the squash pieces.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).