Cut the squash in half lengthwise and then cut each of those in half widthwise, for a total of 4 sections. Scoop out the seeds in the center cavity of the squash. Cut the larger bottom 2 halves in half again, leaving you with a total of 6 sections that are similar in size.
Pour 1-½ cups of cold tap water into the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Add the metal rack/trivet or steamer basket to the inner pot and place the squash on the trivet or in a steamer basket.
Place the lid on the pressure cooker and be sure the vent knob is pointed towards sealed. Set the cooking time for 7 minutes on high pressure. Hit manual/pressure cook and use +/- buttons to adjust until the time reads 7. Once cook time has elapsed, let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes.
Serve sections with butter and seasonings. Alternatively, remove the flesh of the squash from the skin and mash or blend until smooth.
Pressure Cook a Whole Butternut Squash
Wash and dry a whole butternut squash. Pierce the squash 4-6 times to allow steam to escape.
Pour 1-½ cups of cold tap water into the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Add the metal rack/trivet to the inner pot and place the squash on the trivet.
Place the lid on the pressure cooker and be sure the vent knob is pointed towards sealed. Set the cooking time for 25 minutes on high pressure. Hit manual/pressure cook and use the +/- buttons to adjust until the time reads 25. Once cook time has elapsed, let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes.
Remove the squash from the inner pot and place it on a cutting board. Cut the squash open, discard the seeds, and scoop out the flesh into a large mixing bowl or blender. Mash or blend until smooth and serve as desired.
Notes
Blending Squash Puree: If using a blender to puree squash, be sure to leave the lid of the blender cracked open to let steam escape when blending. Storage: Butternut Squash Puree can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.If using as baby food, freeze the puree in ice cube trays until solid. Pop out frozen squash into a storage bag and pull out as desired. When selecting a Butternut squash, look for one that is firm, uniform in color, devoid of large cracks or bruises, and feels heavier than it looks.