How To Cook Delicata Squash In Instant Pot

You can cook delicata squash in an Instant Pot in about 10 to 15 minutes, and it comes out perfectly tender every single time.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to cook delicata squash in Instant Pot without wrestling with a stubborn, rock-hard gourd, you’re in the right place.
 
The Instant Pot makes cooking delicata squash incredibly easy because the steam and pressure do all the heavy lifting for you.
 
One of the best things about delicata squash is that you don’t even have to peel it since the skin is thin and totally edible.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to cook delicata squash in Instant Pot, plus some tasty ways to serve it once it’s done.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

How to Cook Delicata Squash in Instant Pot

Learning how to cook delicata squash in Instant Pot starts with a few simple steps that anyone can follow.
 
Here’s the basic method for cooking delicata squash in an Instant Pot:
 

1. Prep the Squash

Start by washing your delicata squash thoroughly under running water.
 
Since you’ll be eating the skin, you want to make sure it’s clean and free of any dirt or debris.
 
Cut off both ends of the squash with a sharp knife, then slice it in half lengthwise.
 
Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and the stringy pulp in the middle.
 
You can leave the squash in halves or cut it into smaller chunks depending on how you plan to use it.
 

2. Add Water to the Instant Pot

Pour one cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot.
 
This water creates the steam that will cook your delicata squash to perfection.
 
If you’re using a trivet or steamer basket, go ahead and place it inside the pot now.
 
The trivet keeps the squash out of the water so it steams rather than boils.
 

3. Place the Squash Inside

Arrange your delicata squash pieces on the trivet or steamer basket.
 
If you’re cooking halves, place them cut-side up so they hold their shape nicely.
 
You can stack smaller chunks if needed, but try not to overcrowd the pot.
 
If the pieces are too crowded, they won’t cook as evenly, so give them a little breathing room.
 

4. Set the Instant Pot

Secure the lid and make sure the steam release valve is set to sealing.
 
Press the Manual or Pressure Cook button and set the timer for 10 minutes for smaller chunks or 12 to 15 minutes for larger halves.
 
The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time actually begins.
 

5. Do a Quick Release

Once the cooking time is up, carefully turn the steam release valve to venting for a quick release.
 
Be cautious here, because the steam is extremely hot and can burn you if you’re not careful.
 
After the pressure is fully released, open the lid and check your squash with a fork.
 
If it pierces easily, your delicata squash is perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
 

Why Cooking Delicata Squash in an Instant Pot Works So Well

Cooking delicata squash in Instant Pot works so well because pressure cooking locks in moisture and flavor.
 
Here’s why this method is such a winner:
 

1. It’s Fast

Roasting delicata squash in the oven can take 30 to 40 minutes, but the Instant Pot cuts that time down significantly.
 
In just 10 to 15 minutes of actual cooking time, you get soft, tender squash that’s ready to eat.
 
That makes cooking delicata squash in an Instant Pot a total game-changer on busy weeknights.
 

2. No Peeling Required

Delicata squash has a thin, edible skin, which means you skip the tedious peeling step entirely.
 
When you cook delicata squash in Instant Pot, the skin softens up beautifully and becomes perfectly tender.
 

3. It’s Hands-Off

Once you set the timer, you can walk away and get other things done.
 
The Instant Pot handles everything on its own, so learning how to cook delicata squash in an Instant Pot is basically foolproof.
 

4. It Keeps the Squash Moist

The steam environment inside the Instant Pot keeps the squash from drying out.
 
That means every bite of your delicata squash stays moist and creamy instead of becoming dry or stringy.
 

Ways to Serve Your Instant Pot Delicata Squash

Once you’ve mastered how to cook delicata squash in Instant Pot, you can get creative with how you serve it.
 
Here are some delicious ideas:
 

1. Simple Butter and Brown Sugar

Mash or slice your cooked squash and top it with a little butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon.
 
This is one of the easiest ways to enjoy delicata squash in Instant Pot because it brings out the natural sweetness.
 

2. Savory Herb Blend

Drizzle your delicata squash with olive oil and sprinkle on rosemary, thyme, and a little sea salt.
 
This savory twist works great as a side dish next to roasted chicken or pork.
 

3. Add It to Salads and Bowls

Cubed delicata squash is a fantastic addition to warm salads, grain bowls, and even pasta dishes.
 
Just cook delicata squash in your Instant Pot, let it cool slightly, and toss it into your favorite recipe.
 

4. Blend It into Soup

Puree your cooked squash with a little broth, cream, and sautéed onion for a rich and creamy soup.
 
Cooking delicata squash in an Instant Pot makes this soup incredibly quick to throw together on a chilly evening.
 

So, How Do You Cook Delicata Squash in Instant Pot?

You cook delicata squash in Instant Pot by adding a cup of water, placing the prepped squash on a trivet, and pressure cooking it for 10 to 15 minutes.
 
It’s that simple.
 
The Instant Pot takes all the guesswork out of preparing delicata squash, and the result is consistently tender, sweet, and delicious every time.
 
Whether you serve it with butter and brown sugar or toss it into a savory dish, knowing how to cook delicata squash in Instant Pot is a skill worth having in your kitchen.
 
Give this method a try, and you might never go back to roasting again.