Instant Pot Acorn Squash

Today, we are thinking about fall. And learning how to cook acorn squash in a pressure cooker with this simple recipe! Today’s foolproof recipes is Easy Instant Pot Acorn Squash Recipe!

We’ve taken this popular winter squash variety, seasoned it with simple spices, and cooked it until perfectly soft – then topped off our dish with buttery brown sugar sauce that is so delicious you won’t be able to resist!

Today, we will go over how to cooking squash whole or sliced in half, both ways are below.

If you love easy Fall Recipes, try my recipe for Copycat Instant Pot Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup, Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup, or How to Cook a Whole Butternut Squash Instant Pot.

​Ingredients Needed For Instant Pot Acorn Squash

Here are the simple ingredients, you will need for this recipe:

​Remember the step-by-step directions are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page, as well as the nutritional information.

• ​Acorn Squash: Choose a firm squash.
• Water: Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or beef broth
• Brown Sugar
• Butter: Use unsalted butter
• Optional: Maple Syrup, Pecans, or Pecans

How to cook acorn squash in instant pot

Thanks to the Instant Pot this recipe, can be cooked in minutes. Perfect for the holiday dinner, with the sweet flavors. Read on for all the details about how to cook acorn squash in the Instant Pot!

Step One: Cut The Squash

Start by cutting the acorn squash in half.  Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon. Dispose of them.

Step Two: Season The Acorn Squash

In a small mixing bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar, and mix well.  Using a pastry brush, brush on the butter/brown sugar.

Step Three: Pressure Cook The Squash

Add a cup of water to the Instant Pot Bowl. Place the trivet on the bottom of the pot.  Put the squash on the trivet. 

Press the pressure cook button and set manual high pressure for 4-5 minutes, ensuring the vent is sealed; when the time is done, do a natural release, releasing the remaining pressure from the pressure cooker. 

Step Four: Serving

Remove the squash, brush with more melted butter, and add a sprinkle of brown sugar. Optional step: place the squash in the air fryer basket and air fry for a couple of minutes (1-2 minutes)  to caramelize the brown sugar and butter sauce. 

Acorn squash instant pot recipe tips

• Cut the squash into even pieces: If you choose to cut it into smaller pieces for easier handling, make sure they are all about the same size to ensure even cooking.
• Pierce the skin: Before cooking, pierce the skin of the squash with a fork or a sharp knife a few times to allow steam to escape during cooking. This will help prevent the squash from exploding in the pressure cooker.
• Add flavorings: While cooking, you can add additional flavorings to the squash, such as herbs, spices, or a splash of citrus juice, to enhance its taste.
• Use a trivet: Placing a trivet or steaming basket at the bottom of the pressure cooker helps prevent the squash from sticking to the bottom and burning. Another option is a steamer basket or silicone sling.
• Don’t overcook: Acorn squash can quickly become mushy and lose its texture if overcooked in a pressure cooker. Keep an eye on the cooking time, and adjust as necessary based on the size of the squash and your desired level of tenderness.

Acorn squash instant pot recipe faqs

Can you cook a whole acorn squash in a pressure cooker?  Yes, you can cook a whole acorn squash in a pressure cooker, but it may take longer to cook a whole squash than if you cut it into smaller pieces.

How long does it take to cook acorn squash in a pressure cooker? Cooking time for acorn squash in a pressure cooker typically ranges from 7-12 minutes, depending on the size of the squash and your desired level of tenderness.

Do I need to peel the acorn squash in a pressure cooker before cooking it? No, you do not need to peel the acorn squash before cooking it in a pressure cooker. The skin of the squash becomes soft and edible when cooked.

Can I cook other types of squash in a pressure cooker? Yes, you can cook other types of squash, such as butternut squash, summer squash, or spaghetti squash, in a pressure cooker using similar methods.

What is the best way to season acorn squash for cooking in a pressure cooker? To enhance its flavor, you can season acorn squash with various herbs, spices, and seasonings, such as salt, black pepper, garlic cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, garlic, and rosemary.

Can I Use Olive Oil Instead Of Butter? Yes, you can use any high-heat oil, such as olive oil or a little coconut oil, instead of butter. 

More Instant Pot Recipes

• Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
• INSTANT POT PASTA, FETA, AND TOMATOES
• NINJA FOODI CHICKEN PAD THAI
• INSTANT POT SHRIMP SCAMPI
• AIR FRYER CHICKEN PARMESAN