How To Microwave A Small Acorn Squash

You can microwave a small acorn squash in about 7 to 10 minutes, and it comes out tender, sweet, and ready to eat.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to microwave a small acorn squash without turning it into a mushy mess, you’re in the right place.
 
Microwaving a small acorn squash is actually one of the fastest ways to cook this winter squash, and it keeps the flesh moist and easy to scoop.
 
The key is knowing how to prepare a small acorn squash before it goes in the microwave, plus how long to microwave a small acorn squash based on its size.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to microwave a small acorn squash step by step.
 
We’ll also cover how to season a small acorn squash, how to tell when a small acorn squash is done, and a few tips so your microwaved small acorn squash turns out perfectly every time.
 
Let’s get into it.
 

How to Microwave a Small Acorn Squash

Learning how to microwave a small acorn squash starts with a few simple prep steps.
 
Here’s the process for microwaving a small acorn squash from start to finish.
 

1. Wash and Dry the Small Acorn Squash

Before you microwave a small acorn squash, rinse the outside under running water.
 
Since you’ll be cutting through the skin, you don’t want dirt or bacteria getting into the flesh.
 
Pat the small acorn squash dry with a clean towel.
 

2. Cut the Small Acorn Squash in Half

Place the small acorn squash on a sturdy cutting board.
 
Use a sharp chef’s knife to slice it in half from stem to tip.
 
If the small acorn squash feels too hard to cut, microwave it whole for 60 to 90 seconds first to soften the skin.
 
Then let it cool slightly before slicing.
 

3. Scoop Out the Seeds

Once your small acorn squash is halved, use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and stringy pulp.
 
You can save the seeds to roast later if you like.
 
This step also creates a little well in each half of the small acorn squash, which is perfect for seasonings or butter.
 

4. Season the Small Acorn Squash

Now it’s time to flavor your small acorn squash.
 
A little salt and black pepper is all you need, but you can also add cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, or maple syrup for a sweeter take on a small acorn squash.
 
A pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil in the cavity of each small acorn squash half adds richness.
 

5. Arrange and Cover the Small Acorn Squash

Place both halves of the small acorn squash cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish.
 
Add about two tablespoons of water to the dish to create steam.
 
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a plate, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
 

How Long to Microwave a Small Acorn Squash

How long you microwave a small acorn squash depends on its size and your microwave’s wattage.
 
Most small acorn squash take about 7 to 10 minutes on high power.
 
Here’s a simple guide so you don’t overcook your small acorn squash.
 

1. Check at the 5-Minute Mark

Start by microwaving your small acorn squash for 5 minutes.
 
Then carefully remove the dish and check the flesh with a fork.
 
If the fork slides in easily, your small acorn squash is done.
 
If it’s still firm, keep going.
 

2. Continue in 1-Minute Increments

Microwave the small acorn squash in 1-minute bursts until the flesh is tender.
 
This prevents overcooking, which can make a small acorn squash watery or stringy.
 
Most small acorn squash finish somewhere between 7 and 10 minutes total.
 

3. Let the Small Acorn Squash Rest

Once your small acorn squash is tender, let it sit covered for 2 to 3 minutes.
 
This resting time lets the heat finish cooking the inside evenly.
 
Then flip the small acorn squash halves over and fluff the flesh with a fork.
 

Tips for Microwaving a Small Acorn Squash

A few extra pointers can make microwaving a small acorn squash even easier.
 

1. Don’t Skip the Water

That splash of water in the dish is what steams your small acorn squash.
 
Without it, the small acorn squash can dry out and turn rubbery.
 

2. Use a Microwave-Safe Cover

A lid or plate traps steam so your small acorn squash cooks evenly.
 
Just make sure it’s microwave-safe so it doesn’t warp or crack.
 

3. Adjust for Your Microwave

Every microwave is different, so your small acorn squash might need more or less time.
 
If your microwave runs hot, check the small acorn squash earlier.
 

4. Serve It Your Way

A microwaved small acorn squash works as a side dish, a base for soups, or even a topping for salads.
 
You can mash it, stuff it, or scoop it straight from the skin.
 

So, How Do You Microwave a Small Acorn Squash?

You microwave a small acorn squash by halving it, scooping out the seeds, seasoning it, and cooking it covered with a bit of water for 7 to 10 minutes.
 
It’s fast, simple, and gives you tender squash without heating up the whole oven.
 
Now that you know how to microwave a small acorn squash, you can enjoy this cozy fall favorite any night of the week.
 
Just remember to check your small acorn squash early, rest it before serving, and season it however you like best.