Learn how to cut butternut squash into cubes, plus tips on peeling and seeding this fall and winter veggie! This post includes information on cutting squash safely, with or without the help of a microwave, and a step-by-step video.

photo of cubed butternut squash on a cutting board with a text box with post title

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Are you intimidated by squash? I’ve totally been there! It can be discouraging and difficult to cut winter squash. And if you don’t have a plan of action, it might even be dangerous!

That’s why I’m coming at you today with this tutorial on how to cut butternut squash into cubes. You’ll learn the best way to slice squash into sections, remove the skin and seeds, and cut it into perfect cubes.

Be sure to check out the video (<2 minutes) in the recipe card and on the side or top of your screen, too! Conquer your fear of preparing butternut squash, and learn how to enjoy this delicious veggie in so many ways.

How to Peel, Seed, and Dice Butternut Squash

Slice off the stem and bottom.

photo of woman cutting the bottom of a butternut squash in a kitchen

Cut the squash in half at the base of the neck, right before it curves out.

woman cutting a butternut squash in half on top of a cutting board in a kitchen

Remove the skin with a peeler or sharp knife.

woman peeling butternut squash with a swivel peeler over a cutting board

Scoop out the seeds.

woman scooping out seeds from the base of a butternut squash

Cut the top in half lengthwise, then cut each half crosswise into 1-inch strips/half-moons.

woman cutting a piece of squash into 1-inch strips on a cutting board

Stack a couple of the strips on top of each other, and cut those in half.

woman cutting butternut squash on a cutting board in a kitchen

Cut into cubes.

woman cutting butternut squash into cubes on a cutting board

Repeat with the bottom pieces.

Should you microwave squash before cutting it?

Even when you know how to cut butternut squash into cubes, it can still be difficult to physically cut. There’s no denying that squash has really firm skin!

If you have trouble cutting squash and/or don’t have a sharp knife, make several slits in the skin of the squash first. Then, place it in the microwave and cook on high for 2 to 3 minutes. This will help soften the squash and make it easier to peel and cut.

Be sure to make the slits in the skin or else you risk the squash blowing up your microwave. It may also be hot when you remove it from the microwave, so hold it with a towel or wait a few minutes before cutting.

Recommended Equipment

To cut squash safely and effectively, you will need a sharp knife, a cutting board that doesn’t slip, and a good vegetable peeler.

I use a Shun Cutlery chef’s knife, and it is my all time favorite kitchen tool. It’s incredibly sharp and really worth the investment. For cutting boards, I use these bamboo boards from Martha Stewart that have rubber stoppers on the bottom.

Finally, I love my Oxo Good Grips vegetable swivel peeler. A Y-peeler also works well for peeling squash, although I do not have this tool.

Ways to Use Butternut Squash Cubes

Now that you know how to cut butternut squash into cubes, let’s talk about cooking it! Some of my favorite recipes include the Roasted Cinnamon Butternut Squash Cubes, Vegan Butternut Squash and Pear Soup, and Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Brown Rice Risotto. For another tutorial on prepping this veggie, check out my post on How to Make Butternut Squash Puree.

Video

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