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Microwaving squash halves in the microwave is one of the easiest ways to get tender, steamy squash on the table in minutes.
If you’ve been wondering how to microwave squash halves in the microwave without turning them into a mushy mess, you’re in the right place.
The good news is that microwaving squash halves is fast, simple, and works for almost every type of squash, from butternut to acorn to spaghetti squash.
You can microwave squash halves in the microwave with just a few basics: a sharp knife, a microwave-safe dish, a little water, and a cover.
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to microwave squash halves in the microwave, how long to cook them, and how to season them so they actually taste great.
Let’s get started.
How to Microwave Squash Halves in the Microwave
To microwave squash halves in the microwave, you’ll first need to prep them properly so they cook evenly and stay safe to handle.
Here’s the step-by-step process for microwaving squash halves perfectly every time.
1. Wash and Dry the Squash
Rinse the whole squash under running water to remove dirt and bacteria from the skin.
Pat it dry with a clean towel so it doesn’t slip while you’re cutting it.
This small step matters because you’ll be handling the squash a lot before it goes into the microwave.
2. Cut the Squash in Half
Use a sharp chef’s knife to slice the squash in half lengthwise, from stem to tip.
If the squash is tough, like a butternut or acorn squash, microwave it whole for 2 to 3 minutes first to soften the skin.
That little trick makes cutting squash halves much easier and safer.
3. Scoop Out the Seeds
Once your squash is halved, use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and stringy pulp.
You can save the seeds to roast later if you like, especially with butternut or acorn squash.
4. Place Halves Cut-Side Down in a Dish
Set the squash halves cut-side down in a microwave-safe glass or ceramic dish.
Add about 2 tablespoons of water to the dish to create steam, which helps the squash cook faster and stay moist.
5. Cover and Microwave
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a plate that fits snugly.
Microwave squash halves on high for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on size and type.
A small acorn squash may need only 5 minutes, while a large butternut squash half could take 8 to 10 minutes.
6. Check for Tenderness
Carefully remove the dish from the microwave and pierce the squash with a fork.
If the fork slides in easily, your squash halves are done.
If not, microwave in 1-minute bursts until tender.
How Long to Microwave Squash Halves
Timing depends on the type and size of your squash, but here are some general guidelines for microwaving squash halves.
1. Acorn Squash Halves
Microwave acorn squash halves for 5 to 7 minutes on high.
They’re small and dense, so they cook fairly quickly.
2. Butternut Squash Halves
Butternut squash halves usually need 8 to 10 minutes, sometimes longer if they’re large.
Flip them halfway through if you want even cooking.
3. Spaghetti Squash Halves
Spaghetti squash halves take about 7 to 10 minutes.
Once cooked, the flesh shreds into noodle-like strands with a fork, which is why so many people love microwaving spaghetti squash halves.
4. Delicata and Small Squash Halves
Delicata squash halves are thin-skinned and tender, so 4 to 6 minutes is usually plenty.
Tips for Perfect Microwaved Squash Halves
These tips will help you get the best results every time you microwave squash halves.
1. Don’t Skip the Water
That splash of water in the dish creates steam, which cooks the squash gently and keeps it from drying out.
2. Keep the Cover On
Covering the dish traps heat and moisture, so your squash halves cook evenly all the way through.
3. Season After Cooking
Wait until the squash is tender before adding butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, brown sugar, or maple syrup.
Seasonings stick better and taste fresher when added after microwaving.
4. Let It Rest
Let the squash halves sit for 2 to 3 minutes after microwaving so the heat distributes evenly.
5. Watch Out for Hot Steam
When you lift the cover, steam will rush out, so tilt it away from your face to avoid burns.
So, How Do You Microwave Squash Halves in the Microwave?
You microwave squash halves in the microwave by cutting them in half, scooping out the seeds, placing them cut-side down in a dish with a little water, covering, and cooking on high for 5 to 10 minutes.
It’s a fast, fuss-free way to enjoy squash any night of the week without heating up the whole oven.
Once you get the hang of microwaving squash halves, you’ll wonder why you ever did it any other way.