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You can microwave delicata squash in about 6 to 8 minutes, and it comes out tender, sweet, and ready to eat with almost zero effort.
If you’ve been wondering how to microwave delicata squash without turning it into a mushy mess, the good news is that this method is actually one of the easiest ways to cook it.
Delicata squash has thin, edible skin, which means you don’t have to peel it before or after microwaving.
That makes microwaving delicata squash a fast weeknight side dish when you don’t have time to roast.
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to microwave delicata squash, how long it takes, and a few tips so it comes out perfectly every time.
Let’s get into it.
How to Microwave Delicata Squash
Microwaving delicata squash is simple, and here’s how to do it step by step.
1. Wash and Dry the Squash
Start by rinsing your delicata squash under cool running water.
Since you’ll be eating the skin, you want it clean.
Use a vegetable brush to gently scrub away any dirt, then pat it dry with a clean towel.
2. Cut It in Half Lengthwise
Place the squash on a sturdy cutting board.
Use a sharp chef’s knife to slice it in half from stem to tip.
Delicata squash has a thinner skin than butternut or acorn, so this step is easier than you might expect.
3. Scoop Out the Seeds
Use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each half.
Don’t toss those seeds, though.
You can rinse and roast them later for a crunchy snack, just like pumpkin seeds.
4. Place Cut-Side Down in a Microwave-Safe Dish
Arrange the halves cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish.
Add about two tablespoons of water to the bottom of the dish.
That little bit of water creates steam, which helps the delicata squash cook evenly in the microwave.
5. Cover and Microwave
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a plate that fits loosely on top.
Microwave on high for 6 to 8 minutes, depending on the size of your squash.
A small delicata squash might be done in 5 minutes, while a larger one could take up to 10.
6. Check for Doneness
Carefully remove the dish from the microwave, since the steam will be hot.
Pierce the flesh with a fork or knife.
If it slides in easily with no resistance, your delicata squash is done.
If it’s still firm, microwave in one-minute increments until it’s tender.
Why Microwaving Delicata Squash Works So Well
Microwaving delicata squash works beautifully because of a few key reasons.
1. The Skin Is Thin and Edible
Unlike many winter squashes, delicata squash has skin you can actually eat.
That means you skip the peeling step entirely.
The microwave softens both the flesh and the skin at the same time, so the whole thing is ready to eat.
2. Steam Cooks It Fast
The water you add to the dish turns into steam, which surrounds the squash and cooks it quickly.
This is why microwaving delicata squash takes just minutes instead of the 40 minutes or so you’d need in the oven.
3. It Keeps the Natural Sweetness
Microwaving preserves the natural sugars in delicata squash.
Because it cooks fast, the flesh stays moist and sweet rather than drying out.
4. Minimal Cleanup
One dish, one knife, one spoon.
Microwaving delicata squash means way less cleanup than roasting on a sheet pan.
Tips for the Best Microwaved Delicata Squash
Want your delicata squash to come out perfect every time?
Keep these tips in mind.
1. Don’t Skip the Water
That splash of water is what creates the steam.
Without it, the squash can dry out and turn rubbery.
2. Use a Cover That Vents
A loose lid or plate lets steam escape slightly while still trapping enough heat to cook the squash.
If you cover it too tightly, pressure can build up and make a mess.
3. Adjust Time Based on Size
Small delicata squash cook in about 5 minutes.
Medium ones take 6 to 8 minutes.
Large ones may need 9 to 10 minutes, so always check at the 6-minute mark.
4. Season After Microwaving
Add butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, maple syrup, or brown sugar after the squash is cooked.
Seasoning before microwaving can burn or taste off, so wait until it’s tender.
5. Let It Rest for a Minute
Once it’s done, let the delicata squash sit for a minute before serving.
This lets the heat distribute evenly and makes it easier to handle.
So, How Do You Microwave Delicata Squash?
You microwave delicata squash by cutting it in half, scooping out the seeds, and steaming it cut-side down in a covered dish with a little water for 6 to 8 minutes.
It’s fast, easy, and one of the simplest ways to enjoy this sweet, creamy winter squash.
Whether you’re short on time or just don’t want to heat up the oven, microwaving delicata squash gets you a tender, tasty side dish in under 10 minutes.
Give it a try, season it however you like, and enjoy.