Learn how to cook acorn squash in the microwave for a fast, delicious fall side dish. Soft, tender, and the fastest way to enjoy this sweet, nutty winter squash.

Microwave Acorn Squash

Warm, cozy, and ready in minutes! Microwave Acorn Squash is the easiest way to enjoy this sweet, nutty winter squash on busy nights. No oven required! Just slice, scoop, season, and microwave for tender, buttery squash that tastes like it simmered in fall sunshine.

Whether you're meal prepping for the week or need a simple veggie side to pair with your favorite chicken, this quick cooking method delivers all the flavor with hardly any effort.

Why You’ll Love This Microwave Acorn Squash

Fast cooking time - ready in 10 to 15 minutes
Just 3 ingredients - squash, oil, salt + pepper
Naturally gluten-free and vegan
Perfect for meal prep - scoop the cooked squash into containers for bowls, salads, and more
Cozy fall flavor without turning on the oven

Overhead view of an acorn squash cut in half with the seeds scooped out in a small glass baking dish on a white background with a whole acorn squash and a bottle of olive oil behind.

What is Acorn Squash?

Acorn squash is a winter squash known for its signature ribbed shape and sweet, slightly nutty flavor. It’s packed with fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and beta-carotene, making it a nutritious addition to any fall or winter meal. Traditionally roasted, acorn squash can take up to an hour in the oven. But the microwave gives you the same soft, caramelized results in a fraction of the time!

Toppings & Serving Suggestions

Once your acorn squash is tender and steamy from the microwave, the fun really begins. Its naturally sweet, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory toppings, making it perfect for customizing to your meal or mood.

Sweet Toppings

Turn your squash into a cozy, fall-inspired treat:

Brown Sugar & Cinnamon - A classic combo that caramelizes slightly as it melts into the warm squash.
Maple Syrup & Pecans - Add a drizzle of pure maple syrup and sprinkle with chopped nuts for flavor and crunch.
Honey Butter - A pat of butter and a swirl of honey melts into every bite. Try some granola or nuts for crunch too!
Apple Pie Twist - Top with diced apples, a dash of nutmeg, and maybe a few raisins.

Overhead view of half of a cooked microwave acorn squash topped with a pat of butter and fresh thyme.

Savory Toppings

Serve as a hearty side dish with dinner:

Garlic Butter & Herbs - Melted butter with rosemary, sage, or thyme enhances the earthy squash flavor.
Parmesan & Black Pepper - Adds a salty, cheesy punch that pairs well with roasted meats.
Crispy Bacon Bits - A little goes a long way for smoky richness.
Stuffed Squash - Scoop in sautéed sausage, spinach, or quinoa for a complete meal.

What to Serve With Acorn Squash

Microwave acorn squash fits into any cozy fall or winter meal. Try pairing it with:

Roast chicken or turkey
Pork chops or ham
Grilled steak or salmon
Holiday favorites like stuffing, green beans, or cranberry dishes

This easy microwave method means you can add a nutritious vegetable to your plate any nigh without waiting on the oven.

More Winter Squash Recipes You'll Love

Baked Butternut Squash - Tender roasted squash with golden edges and irresistibly sweet, caramelized flavor—an easy, cozy side dish for any fall meal.
Spicy Southwest Pumpkin Soup - Creamy pumpkin blended with bold Southwest spices for a warm, comforting soup with a little kick.
Hasselback Sweet Potatoes - Thinly sliced sweet potatoes baked to crispy perfection with buttery, caramelized edges and soft centers.
Butternut Squash Gratin - Layers of creamy butternut squash and melty cheese baked under a golden, bubbly crust.
Butternut Squash Bisque - Rich, velvety squash soup with warm spices and smooth, silky texture that tastes like fall in a bowl.