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You can cook sweet dumpling squash in the microwave, and it’s one of the easiest ways to get this sweet, nutty winter squash on your plate in under 15 minutes.
If you’ve been wondering how to cook sweet dumpling squash in the microwave without turning it into a mushy mess, you’re in the right place.
The microwave steams the flesh from the inside out, which keeps it tender while preserving that naturally sweet, chestnut-like flavor.
Plus, you skip the long roasting time and the struggle of cutting a rock-hard squash.
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to cook sweet dumpling squash in the microwave, step by step, plus toppings and tips to make it taste amazing.
Let’s get cooking.
Why You Should Cook Sweet Dumpling Squash in the Microwave
Cooking sweet dumpling squash in the microwave works so well because of a few simple reasons:
1. It’s Fast
A whole sweet dumpling squash cooks in the microwave in about 10 to 12 minutes.
Compare that to 40 to 50 minutes in the oven, and you can see why microwaving is a game changer on busy weeknights.
2. It Steams the Flesh Perfectly
The moisture inside the squash turns to steam as it heats, cooking the flesh evenly without drying it out.
That means when you cook sweet dumpling squash in the microwave, you get a consistently tender result every single time.
3. It’s Easier to Cut After Cooking
If you’ve ever tried to halve a raw sweet dumpling squash, you know it’s tough.
Microwaving it whole first softens the skin and flesh, so slicing and scooping becomes effortless.
4. No Pots or Pans Needed
You literally need a microwave-safe plate and a fork.
That’s it.
Cleanup is minimal, which is a win in anyone’s book.
How to Cook Sweet Dumpling Squash in the Microwave Step by Step
Here’s the simple method for how to cook sweet dumpling squash in the microwave:
1. Wash and Pierce the Squash
Rinse the squash under running water to remove any dirt.
Then use a fork or sharp knife to pierce the skin in 8 to 10 spots all around.
This lets steam escape so the squash doesn’t burst inside your microwave.
2. Place It on a Microwave-Safe Plate
Set the whole sweet dumpling squash on a microwave-safe plate or dish.
No water needed, since the squash has plenty of moisture inside.
3. Microwave on High
Cook on high power for 5 minutes, then carefully flip the squash over using tongs.
Microwave for another 5 to 7 minutes until the skin feels soft and a knife slides in easily.
Cooking times vary based on squash size and microwave wattage, so check at the 10-minute mark.
4. Let It Rest
Let the squash sit for 5 minutes before handling.
It’ll be very hot, and resting allows the inside to finish steaming.
5. Cut, Scoop, and Serve
Slice the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and fluff the flesh with a fork.
Now you’ve officially cooked sweet dumpling squash in the microwave and it’s ready to eat.
Ways to Serve Your Microwaved Sweet Dumpling Squash
Plain microwaved sweet dumpling squash tastes great on its own, but you can easily dress it up:
1. Brown Butter and Sage
Drizzle melted brown butter over the flesh and sprinkle with crispy sage leaves.
The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the squash.
2. Maple and Cinnamon
A drizzle of maple syrup and a dash of cinnamon turns it into a cozy, almost dessert-like side.
3. Savory Twist
Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a savory version.
4. Stuffed Squash
Scoop out the cooked flesh, mix with rice, sausage, or beans, then stuff it back into the shells.
Pop it under the broiler for a few minutes for a golden finish.
5. Blend into Soup
Scoop the cooked flesh into a blender with broth, onion, and cream for a silky soup.
Because you already cooked sweet dumpling squash in the microwave, the soup comes together in minutes.
Tips for the Best Microwaved Sweet Dumpling Squash
Keep these tips in mind when you cook sweet dumpling squash in the microwave:
1. Don’t Skip Piercing
Piercing is non-negotiable, as an unpierced squash can burst and make a huge mess.
2. Use the Right Plate
Always use a microwave-safe dish to avoid cracking or melting.
3. Adjust for Size
Smaller squash cook faster, so start checking at 8 minutes for smaller ones.
4. Don’t Overcook
Overcooking makes the flesh watery and stringy, so stop as soon as a knife slides in easily.
5. Rest Before Cutting
Resting lets the steam redistribute and makes the flesh easier to scoop.
So, How Do You Cook Sweet Dumpling Squash in the Microwave?
You cook sweet dumpling squash in the microwave by piercing it, placing it on a microwave-safe plate, and cooking it on high for about 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
It’s fast, mess-free, and gives you perfectly tender squash every time.
Whether you serve it with brown butter, maple syrup, or stuff it with your favorite fillings, this method makes winter squash an easy weeknight staple.
Now that you know how to cook sweet dumpling squash in the microwave, go grab one and give it a try tonight.