Fall cooking doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen watching vegetables roast in the oven. If you’re like me, you want the cozy flavors of autumn without the long wait times and constant oven monitoring. That’s where this Instant Pot acorn squash recipe comes in – it’s a practical solution for busy weeknights when you’re craving something warm and comforting, but don’t have the patience (or time) for traditional cooking methods.
This straightforward recipe takes the stress out of preparing acorn squash, delivering tender, perfectly cooked results in a fraction of the time. Plus, it frees up your oven for other dishes, which is especially helpful during holiday meal prep or family dinners.
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Acorn squash can be replaced with butternut squash or pumpkin, offering similar textures and flavors. These alternatives may require slight adjustments to cooking time due to differences in size and density. Unsalted butter can be substituted with coconut oil or olive oil for a dairy-free option, maintaining the rich mouthfeel while altering the flavor profile slightly. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe. Maple syrup can be swapped for honey or agave nectar, providing similar sweetness. Use slightly less honey or agave, as they are sweeter than maple syrup. For a sugar-free version, consider using a natural sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting the quantity to taste.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 4-7 minutes (pressure cooking) + 10 minutes (natural release) + 5-20 minutes (optional caramelizing) |
| Total Time | 25-50 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 2-4 g
- Fat: 10-15 g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50 g
Ingredients
For the squash:
- 1 cup cold water (for Instant Pot pressure cooking)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 acorn squash (halved and seeds removed)
- Black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
For the maple butter sauce:
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (I prefer Kerrygold)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (grade A amber or darker for richer flavor)
- 1/8 tsp nutmeg
Step 1: Prepare the Acorn Squash
Begin by rinsing the acorn squash thoroughly and patting it dry.
Using a very sharp knife, carefully cut the acorn squash in half.
Take a spoon and gently scrape out the seeds and stringy portions from inside the squash.
*Pro Tip: The seeds can be saved if you wish to roast them at a later time for a tasty snack.
Step 2: Pressure Cook the Acorn Squash
Add 1 cup (250 ml) of cold water into your Instant Pot and place a trivet inside.
Position the halved and seeded acorn squash on the trivet.
Lightly sprinkle some coarse salt on the squash for seasoning.
Secure the lid and set the Venting Knob to the Sealing position.
If you have a smaller acorn squash (13″ circumference), pressure cook at High Pressure for 4 minutes, followed by a 10-minute Natural Release.
For a larger acorn squash (17″ circumference), pressure cook at High Pressure for 6 – 7 minutes, followed by a 10-minute Natural Release.
Once complete, carefully open the lid.
Step 3: Prepare the Maple Butter Sauce
Melt 2 tablespoons (28g) of unsalted butter using a microwave or stovetop.
In a small mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons (30ml) of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons (28g) of the melted butter, a pinch of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon (0.3g) of nutmeg, if using.
Mix well until combined.
Note that the maple butter sauce will thicken as it cools down.
Set it aside to prepare for serving.
Step 4: Apply Sauce and Serve
Generously brush or pour the maple butter sauce over the acorn squash halves.
Serve immediately for a deliciously sweet and flavorful dish.
Step 5: Optional – Caramelize the Acorn Squash
If you wish to caramelize the acorn squash, you have two options:
Option 1: Oven/Toaster Oven – Place the acorn squash on an oven tray and use the “Broil” function or the highest temperature setting for a few minutes until the maple butter sauce is caramelized.
Option 2: Air Fryer Lid – Place the air fryer basket with the tray on the middle rack in the Instant Pot and place the acorn squash on the air fryer tray.
Attach the air fryer lid to the Instant Pot, press the “Broil” button, set the temperature to 400°F, and the cooking time to 20 minutes.
It will take approximately 8 – 11 minutes plus preheat time to achieve a caramelized finish.
