Instant Pot Acorn Squash

Looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious fall favorite? Try this Instant Pot Acorn Squash recipe! With easy prep and a hands-off cooking process, you can have perfectly cooked squash in just minutes, whether you prefer it savory or sweet. It’s a versatile side dish that will become a staple on your table for the holidays.

Why cook acorn squash in the instant pot? It cooks acorn squash much faster than the oven. Whether you’re an Instant Pot beginner or an experienced user, our recipe makes savoring autumn squash easy and quick.

Acorn squash, with its small, dark green shape and nutty-sweet flavor, is a perfect addition to fall meals. When cooked, it becomes creamy and sweet, complementing various cozy dishes.

👩🏻‍🍳As a chef who loves fast and healthy cooking, cooking acorn squash in the instant pot is a real game-changer! It’s a versatile winter squash that cooks up beautifully in the pressure cooker, saving valuable time without sacrificing flavor!

Acorn squash is incredibly versatile. It adds richness to soups, makes creamy bases, and pairs perfectly with chicken, beef, or potatoes, thanks to its sweet touch. Learn how to make acorn squash in an instant pot so you can even blend it with cinnamon and nutmeg for a tasty soup or puree to accompany your Thanksgiving turkey as a unique side dish!

🧂Ingredients You’ll Need

• Acorn Squash – The main ingredient, acorn squash, provides a hint of sweetness and nutty flavor and becomes tender and creamy when cooked, making it the star of the show.
• Water – The water in the Instant Pot creates the necessary steam for pressure cooking, ensuring the acorn squash cooks evenly and becomes soft and easily scoopable.
• Optional seasonings – These seasonings add flavor and depth to the acorn squash. Salt and pepper enhance the natural sweetness of the squash, while butter, brown sugar, or maple syrup add richness and sweetness, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

📖How To Make Acorn Squash In Instant Pot

1️⃣Prepare the acorn squash: Wash the outside of the acorn squash. Use a sharp knife to cut the squash in half from top to bottom. Scoop out the seeds and any stringy insides using a spoon.

2️⃣Seasoning (optional): Sprinkle the inside of each half with salt and pepper. Add a pat of butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweeter flavor.

3️⃣Prepare the pressure cooker: Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot. Insert the steaming trivet that comes with your Instant Pot.

4️⃣Arrange the seasoned acorn squash: Place the acorn squash halves, cut side up, onto the trivet in the Instant Pot. If they don’t both fit flat, you can nestle them together in an upright position.

5️⃣Pressure cook acorn squash: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to the “sealing” position. Choose the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and adjust the cooking time to 7 minutes on high pressure. (Note: How long it takes to cook is dependent on acorn squash size. If you have a large acorn squash or you like it very soft, increase the time to 9 or 10 minutes.)

6️⃣Natural Release: Once the cooking time has finished, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the valve to the “venting” position to release any remaining pressure.

7️⃣Serve: Carefully open the Instant Pot lid. Using tongs or oven mitts, remove the acorn squash halves and place them on a serving dish. If you’ve added butter, sugar, or syrup, the insides might be bubbly and caramelized.

👩🏻‍🍳Chef Val’s Tips

• Choose a ripe acorn squash: Look for a squash that feels heavy for its size, has a deep green color, and a hard, unblemished skin. This ensures it’s fresh and flavorful.
• Wash and dry the squash: Before cutting, make sure to thoroughly wash and dry the squash’s exterior to remove any dirt.
• Use a sharp knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to cut through the tough skin and flesh of the acorn squash. Be cautious and use a stable cutting surface.
• Scoop out seeds and stringy bits: Use a sturdy spoon or ice cream scoop to efficiently remove the seeds and any stringy portions from the squash’s center. This step ensures a clean and smooth interior for seasoning.
• Don’t discard the seeds: You can roast the seeds for a tasty snack by seasoning them with salt and spices and baking them until they’re crispy.
• Nestle the squash halves: If both squash halves don’t fit flat in the Instant Pot, you can position them upright and nestle them together to make them fit.
• Use the steaming trivet: Placing the acorn squash on the steaming trivet keeps them above the water, ensuring they steam properly and don’t become soggy.
• Caramelization: If you’ve added butter, sugar, or syrup, enjoy the deliciously caramelized insides that result from the pressure cooking process.
• Experiment with toppings: Get creative with toppings like chopped herbs, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to further elevate the flavor and presentation of your acorn squash.
• Keep the skin on for added texture: If you enjoy a bit of texture, consider leaving the skin on when serving. It’s edible and can add a pleasant contrast to the creamy flesh.
• Store any leftovers: If you have extra cooked acorn squash, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. It can be reheated and used in various dishes like salads, pastas, or even as a topping for pizza!

🍋Variations

• Savory Herb: To amp up the savoriness, consider rubbing the acorn squash with olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before cooking. This imparts a delicious herbaceous flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle, smoky heat that complements the natural sweetness of the squash.
• Citrus Zest: Elevate the flavor with a sprinkle of fresh lemon or orange zest just before serving, creating a bright and zesty contrast.
• Nutty Crunch: After cooking, top the squash with toasted chopped nuts like pecans, almonds, or walnuts for added texture.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan, Gruyère, or cheddar cheese on top of the acorn squash before serving. The melted cheese will add a savory and gooey finish.
• Balsamic Reduction: A drizzle of balsamic reduction can provide a tangy and slightly sweet contrast to the squash’s natural flavors.
• Candied Pecans: Instead of plain nuts, use candied pecans and a sprinkle of brown sugar for a sweet, crunchy topping that pairs perfectly with the squash.
• Bacon Bits: Crumble crispy bacon on top of the acorn squash for a savory, salty kick that balances the sweetness of the squash beautifully.
• With apples: Serve with cooked apples and wild rice for a beautiful complimentary flavor.

❄Storing & Freezing

To store any leftover acorn squash, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or oven to maintain its delicious texture and flavor!

Allow the cooked acorn squash to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months. To use, thaw the frozen squash in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

❔FAQ

Can you eat the skin of an acorn squash?

Yes, the skin is edible and becomes tender when cooked, so you don’t need to peel it before eating. In fact, keeping the skin on can add a pleasant texture and visual appeal to your dishes.

Can I cook a whole acorn squash in the Instant Pot?

While it’s possible to cook a whole acorn squash without cutting in the Instant Pot, it’s not recommended. It’s more common to cut it in half and remove the seeds and stringy insides for faster and more even cooking.

Can I cook multiple acorn squash halves at once in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can stack or nestle multiple acorn squash halves in the Instant Pot as long as they fit comfortably. Just ensure they’re not overcrowded so they can cook evenly.

Can I use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water?

Absolutely! Using broth instead of water can infuse the squash with extra flavor. It’s a great way to enhance the taste of your dish.

😋More Squash Recipes

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• Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash
• Keto Yellow Squash Casserole
• Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash