Microwave Baked Butternut Squash
Creamy microwave-baked butternut squash with butter, salt, and pepper offers a quick, flavorful side perfect for busy weeknights or wholesome family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pare the butternut squash.
- Cut the squash into 1/2-inch thick slices and remove the seeds.
- Arrange the slices in a 2-quart glass baking dish.
- Sprinkle water over the squash and dot with butter.
- Cover and microwave for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking.
- Add salt and pepper, then stir to blend.
- Let rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For easier peeling, microwave the butternut squash for 2-3 minutes before cutting. If you prefer a healthier fat alternative, consider using olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile, especially if you're a fan of sweeter dishes. This recipe is a great base for variations, so feel free to experiment with spices or herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious butternut squash as a side dish to complement roasted meats or vegetarian dishes. It pairs beautifully with Corn Souffle Or Corn Pudding for a festive meal. Try garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an added touch. This dish also makes a lovely filling for grain bowls or can be blended into soups for a creamy texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover microwave baked butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If you find the squash has dried out a bit, add a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Baked Butternut Squash contains roughly 16 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% 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 use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
While fresh butternut squash is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen squash. Just adjust the cooking time, as frozen vegetables usually require a bit longer to heat through. Be sure to drain any excess water after cooking to maintain the right consistency.
What can I do with leftover squash?
Leftover microwave baked butternut squash can be repurposed in various ways. Mash it for a creamy side, add it to salads for a sweet touch, or blend it into smoothies for extra nutrition. You can also incorporate it into pasta dishes or use it as a filling for quesadillas.
How can I tell when the squash is done cooking?
The squash is done when it is tender and easily pierced with a fork. If you find it is still hard after the initial cooking time, cover and microwave in 1-2 minute increments until fully cooked. Remember to stir halfway through cooking for even heating.
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).