American Easy

Microwaved Butternut Squash Puree

Name: Microwaved Butternut Squash Puree
Prep time: PT10MINUTES
Cook time: PT20MINUTES
Total time: PT30MINUTES
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch chunks); 1/2 cup half-and-half; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into pieces); 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; to taste extra black pepper

A silky, sweet-savory side that comes together without the oven

americanvegetariangluten-freequicksidevegetable

— (0 ratings)

⏱️ 30 minutes 10 minutes prep · 20 minutes cook

🍽️ 4 Serves

165 Calories

3g Protein

24g Carbs

8g Fat

Why This Recipe Works

The microwave is an underrated tool for winter squash, steaming the flesh perfectly without the dry edges of roasting. This method produces a remarkably smooth texture that highlights the squash's natural sweetness.

Instructions

Place the squash in a large microwave-safe bowl and cover tightly with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap.

💡 Ensure the seal is tight to trap the steam effectively.

Microwave on high until the squash is completely tender and easily pierced with a fork, 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time.

Drain the squash thoroughly in a colander to prevent a watery puree, then transfer it immediately to a food processor.

Add the half-and-half, butter, sugar, and salt, and process until the squash is perfectly smooth, about 20 seconds, stopping once to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

💡 Processing while the squash is hot helps the butter emulsify for a silkier texture.

Transfer the puree to a serving bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste; serve hot.