How long to cook butternut squash: 30–40 min in the oven at 200°C (180°C fan), 15–20 min in an air fryer at 200°C, 12–15 min boiled and 12–15 min steamed. Every way to cook it is below, with the temperature and how to tell it’s done.
How long to cook butternut squash
Times are for 1 medium squash (about 1 kg), for 4.
Peel with a vegetable peeler, halve, scoop out the seeds and cut into 2–3 cm cubes. For halves, leave the skin on.
How to tell it’s done
Soft all the way through and caramelised at the edges.
Questions
How long to cook butternut squash in the oven?
Cubes: 30–40 min at 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6. Toss cubes in oil and turn halfway. Halves: 45 min to 1 h at 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6. Brush with oil and roast cut side up.
How long to cook butternut squash in an air fryer?
Cubes: 15–20 min at 200°C (400°F). Toss in a tablespoon of oil; shake halfway.
How long to boil butternut squash?
Cubes: 12–15 min simmering in salted water. For mash or soup.
How long to steam butternut squash?
Cubes: 12–15 min over simmering water.
How long to microwave butternut squash?
Cubes: 8–10 min on full power, covered. With 3 tablespoons of water; stir halfway.
How long to cook butternut squash in a slow cooker?
Cubes: 4–6 hours on low. In a stew or curry with stock; 2–3 hours on high.
Times are a guide for typical home portions: ovens, air fryers, microwaves and the size of what you’re cooking all vary. Check meat, poultry and fish with a thermometer before serving. Safe temperatures follow USDA and UK Food Standards Agency guidance, last checked 11 November 2026.