Instant Pot Squash in 8 Minutes
Perfectly cooked squash in just 8 minutes using your Instant Pot—no oven needed.
- Prep5 min
- Cook8 min
- Total13 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings4
If you don't have time to roast squash for an hour, this Instant Pot method is a game-changer. In just 8 minutes of pressure steaming, the flesh becomes tender and easy to handle.
Simply halve the squash, remove the seeds, and steam it on a trivet. The peel practically falls off, and you can enjoy it plain, with butter, or in your favorite recipes.
Ingredients
Servings
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- Use a rubber mallet and a sharp knife to cut the squash in half. Scoop out the seeds and discard (or reserve for roasting).
- If the squash is large, cut each half into quarters so the pieces fit in the Instant Pot.
- Place a metal trivet in the inner pot and add 1 cup of water. (The trivet is essential.)
- Arrange the squash pieces on the trivet.
- Close the lid and set the steam release valve to Sealing.
- Select the Steam button (not Manual) and set the time to 8 minutes.
- When cooking ends, let the pressure release naturally or do a quick release. The flesh will separate from the peel effortlessly.
- Serve plain, or with a pat of butter and salt, or use in any recipe you like.
💡 Tips
- For extra flavor, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the water before steaming.
- Save the seeds to roast with salt and pepper for a crunchy snack.
- If you prefer a softer texture, increase the steam time by 1–2 minutes.
Inspired by a recipe from Kitchen Stewardship