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You can pressure cook butternut squash to get perfectly tender results in a fraction of the time it takes to roast it in the oven.
If you’ve been wondering how to pressure cook butternut squash without ending up with a mushy mess, you’re in the right place.
Pressure cooking butternut squash is actually one of the easiest ways to prepare this sweet, creamy winter squash.
The result is a velvety, fork-tender squash that works beautifully in soups, purees, casseroles, and so much more.
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to pressure cook butternut squash step by step, plus tips for cutting it safely and using it in your favorite recipes.
Let’s dive in.
How to Pressure Cook Butternut Squash (Step by Step)
When you pressure cook butternut squash, the process is simpler than you might think.
Here’s exactly how to do it.
1. Prep and Cut the Squash
To pressure cook butternut squash, start by washing the outside of the squash thoroughly.
Cut off the stem and the bottom end, then slice the squash in half lengthwise.
Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits with a spoon.
If you want to pressure cook butternut squash whole, you can skip the cutting, but it takes longer to cook and the skin is harder to remove afterward.
For faster results, peel the skin and cut the squash into 1 to 2-inch cubes.
2. Add Water to Your Pressure Cooker
You need liquid to build pressure, so pour about 1 cup of water into the bottom of your electric pressure cooker or stovetop pressure cooker.
If you’re using a steamer basket or trivet, place it inside now.
This keeps the butternut squash out of the water so it steams rather than boils.
3. Load the Squash
Place your cubed or halved butternut squash into the steamer basket or directly on the trivet.
Don’t fill it past the max fill line.
If you’re cooking a lot of squash, do it in batches rather than overcrowding.
4. Set the Time and Pressure
To pressure cook butternut squash cubes, set your cooker to high pressure for 4 to 6 minutes.
If you’re cooking halved squash, give it 8 to 10 minutes on high pressure.
Whole butternut squash takes about 15 to 20 minutes on high pressure.
5. Do a Quick Release
Once the cooking time is up, carefully do a quick pressure release.
This stops the cooking process fast so your butternut squash doesn’t turn to mush.
Open the lid once the pressure has fully dropped and the float valve sinks.
6. Check for Doneness
Pierce the squash with a fork or knife.
It should slide in easily with no resistance when your butternut squash is perfectly cooked.
If it’s still firm, lock the lid back on and cook for 1 to 2 more minutes.
Why Pressure Cook Butternut Squash?
There are several great reasons to pressure cook butternut squash instead of roasting or boiling it.
1. It’s Much Faster
When you pressure cook butternut squash, you cut the cooking time down drastically.
What takes 45 minutes to an hour in the oven takes just 4 to 6 minutes under pressure.
2. It Preserves Nutrients
Pressure cooking butternut squash uses steam, which helps retain more vitamins and minerals compared to boiling.
The squash keeps more of its natural sweetness and vibrant orange color too.
3. It’s Hands-Off
Once you load the cooker and set the timer, you can walk away.
No stirring, no watching, no worrying about burning.
That’s one of the best things about learning how to pressure cook butternut squash.
4. Perfect Texture Every Time
Pressure cooking butternut squash gives you consistently tender results without drying it out.
It’s ideal for mashing, pureeing, or blending into soups.
Tips for the Best Pressure Cooked Butternut Squash
Want to pressure cook butternut squash like a pro?
Keep these tips in mind.
Always use a steamer basket or trivet so the squash steams rather than sits in water.
Cut pieces evenly so they cook at the same rate when you pressure cook butternut squash.
Don’t overcook it, since squash can go from tender to mushy in just a minute or two.
Season after cooking with salt, pepper, butter, or maple syrup for the best flavor.
If you pressure cook butternut squash for soup, cook it a minute or two longer so it blends smoothly.
Ways to Use Pressure Cooked Butternut Squash
Once you pressure cook butternut squash, the possibilities are endless.
1. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Blend your pressure cooked butternut squash with broth, onions, and a splash of cream for a cozy soup.
2. Mashed Butternut Squash
Mash it with butter, salt, and a little brown sugar for a delicious side dish.
3. Butternut Squash Puree
Puree your pressure cooked butternut squash and use it in baby food, pasta sauces, or baked goods.
4. Casseroles and Bowls
Toss cubed pressure cooked butternut squash into casseroles, grain bowls, or salads for extra flavor and nutrition.
So, How Do You Pressure Cook Butternut Squash?
You pressure cook butternut squash by prepping it, adding water to your cooker, loading the squash on a trivet, and cooking it on high pressure for just a few minutes.
It’s fast, easy, and gives you perfectly tender squash every single time.
Whether you’re making soup, puree, or a simple side dish, learning how to pressure cook butternut squash will save you time and effort in the kitchen.
Give it a try, and you might never go back to roasting again.