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Katie's Cucina » Recipes » Air Fryer

Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Published: Nov 17, 2023 by Katie · This post may contain affiliate links

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Text on image: "how to make air fryer butternut squash" with photo of plate with mashed potatoes, turkey cutlets, and butternut squash. second photo of butternut squash in a bowl.
Text on image: "Homemade air fryer butternut squash" with photo of cooked butternut squash in an air fryer.
Plate with mashed potatoes, turkey cutlets, and butternut squash and air fryer butternut squash in a dish on a blue and white striped cloth and two forks.
Text on image: "air fryer butternut squash" with photo of plate with mashed potatoes, turkey cutlets, and butternut squash and air fryer butternut squash in a dish on a blue and white striped cloth.
Text on image: "air fryer butternut squash" with photo of air fryer butternut squash in a dish on a blue and white striped cloth.
Text on image: "how to make air fryer butternut squash" with photo of plate with mashed potatoes, turkey cutlets, and butternut squash. second photo of butternut squash in a bowl.

Discover the ultimate way to elevate your side dish game with Air Fryer Butternut Squash. Crispy, caramelized, and packed with flavor, this easy recipe is a game-changer for your dinner table!

Air fryer butternut squash in a dish on a blue and white striped cloth.

When it comes to versatile and delicious side dishes, butternut squash shines bright in the culinary world, but somehow doesn’t always make it to the dinner table at home. Its naturally sweet, nutty flavor, and creamy texture make it a favorite addition to countless dishes. When it’s in season you’ll find it making a frequent appearance on my dinner table. If you’re looking to take your butternut squash to the next level, it’s time to introduce your trusty air fryer into the equation. Just like my air fryer acorn squash this recipe is made in minutes.

Air Fryer Butternut Squash is a game-changer, providing the perfect combination of crispiness and caramelization, all without the excess oil. I’m here to walk you through every step as well as answer some frequently asked questions, and share valuable tips and tricks to make your airfried butternut squash a smashing success.

Why this Recipe Works

Crispy Perfection: Air fryers are well-known for their magical ability to turn ingredients crispy without the need for excessive oil. Butternut squash, when cooked in the air fryer, becomes irresistibly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and flavorful inside. It’s the ideal way to achieve that satisfying crunch that’s usually associated with deep frying.

Time and Energy Efficient: Traditional oven-roasting can take a significant amount of time and energy, especially when you’re in a hurry. With an air fryer, you can have your butternut squash ready in a fraction of the time. Preheating is quicker, and the cooking process itself is much faster, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknight dinners.

Versatile Seasoning Options: Air Fryer Butternut Squash is like a blank canvas for flavor. You can season it with various herbs and spices to suit your preferences. Whether you opt for classic salt and pepper, or decide to get creative with cinnamon, rosemary, or even a touch of chili powder, the air fryer helps these seasonings adhere perfectly to the squash, resulting in a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Ingredients on a marble counter: black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, salt, oil, butternut squash.
  • Butternut Squash – 1 whole butternut squash peeled and cubed is all you need. Or you can save time at the grocery store and purchase it already peeled and cubed. I prefer this option to save time.
  • Oil – Because you are using the air fryer you want to usse a higher smoke point oil. That’s why I always recommend using grape seed oil.
  • Seasonings – I like to use a combination of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Directions

raw diced butternut squash and seasoning in a stainless steel bowl on a marble counter.
raw diced butternut squash and tongs in a stainless steel bowl on a marble counter.

Preheat the Air Fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

While air fryer preheats, placed the diced and peeled butternut squash in a bowl, drizzle grapeseed oil over the squash and sprinkle on the salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well until seasoning is on all the squash.

Raw butternut squash in an air fryer.

Pour the seasoned butternut squash in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 20-22 minutes until fork tender, mixing one to two times during the cooking process. Once done cooking serve immediately.

Recipe FAQs

What does butternut squash taste like?

Butternut squash has a sweet, nutty flavor with a mild, creamy texture, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes.

Do I need to peel the butternut squash before air frying it?

Yes, it’s best to peel the butternut squash for this recipe. The skin can be tough and won’t become as crispy as the flesh. Peeling also allows the seasonings to penetrate the squash more effectively.

Can I air fry a whole butternut squash?

Air frying a whole butternut squash is not recommended. Whole butternut squash has a thick, hard skin, and the flesh inside needs to cook thoroughly. Air frying a whole butternut squash would likely result in uneven cooking and a potentially overcooked exterior with an undercooked interior.

What temperature and time should I use for air frying butternut squash?

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air fry the butternut squash cubes for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer’s model and the size of your squash pieces, so keep an eye on them.

Can I make this recipe in advance and reheat it?

Yes, you can make Air Fryer Butternut Squash in advance and reheat it. To maintain the crispiness, reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes, or use an oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s warm and crispy again.

Tips & Tricks

Plate with mashed potatoes, turkey cutlets, and butternut squash and air fryer butternut squash in a dish on a blue and white striped cloth and two forks.
  • Uniform Cubes: To ensure even cooking, cut your butternut squash into uniform cubes. This will help every piece cook at the same rate and achieve that perfect crispiness.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook your butternut squash in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation and ensure the best results.
  • Seasonings – The sky is the limit when seasoning butternut squash. You can always add onion powder, smoked paprika, rosemary, sage, cayenne for a little heat or even sprinkle on a little brown sugar to really get the butternut squash to caramelize.
  • Oil Application: Lightly coat the butternut squash cubes with a small amount of oil before air frying. This helps with the crisping process and enhances the flavor.

Butternut Squash Recipes

  • Autumn Squash Soup
  • Harvest Quinoa Salad with Pumpkin Yogurt Dressing
    Harvest Quinoa Salad with Pumpkin Yogurt Dressing
  • Turkey Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup
    Turkey Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup
  • Sheet Pan Harvest Pork Chop Dinner
    Sheet Pan Harvest Pork Chop Dinner

Air Fryer Butternut Squash is the perfect side dish to elevate your meals. It’s quick, easy, and delivers a delightful combination of crispy exteriors and tender interiors, making it a true crowd-pleaser. With versatile seasoning options and the convenience of your air fryer, you can’t go wrong with this delectable dish. So, give it a try and watch your family and guests fall in love with butternut squash all over again!

If you make this air fryer butternut squash recipe, I would be honored and love for you to take the time to leave a ⭐ star rating and comment! I spend hours developing and testing these recipes, and always love to hear feedback and user experience!

Don’t forget to FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram, and subscribe to my email list!

Air fryer butternut squash in a dish on a blue and white striped cloth.

Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Discover the ultimate way to elevate your side dish game with Air Fryer Butternut Squash. Crispy, caramelized, and packed with flavor, this easy recipe is a game-changer for your dinner table!
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 112kcal
Author: Katie

Equipment

  • Measuring Spoons
  • Tongs
  • Air Fryer

Ingredients

  • 25 ounces Diced and Peeled Butternut Squash
  • 1 tablespoon Grapeseed Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic
  • ¼ teaspoon Paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat the Air Fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • While air fryer preheats, placed the diced and peeled butternut squash in a bowl, drizzle grapeseed oil over the squash and sprinkle on the salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well until seasoning is on all the squash.
  • Pour the seasoned butternut squash in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 20-22 minutes until fork tender, mixing one to two times during the cooking process. Once done cooking serve immediately.

Notes

  • Uniform Cubes: To ensure even cooking, cut your butternut squash into uniform cubes. This will help every piece cook at the same rate and achieve that perfect crispiness.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook your butternut squash in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation and ensure the best results.
  • Seasonings – The sky is the limit when seasoning butternut squash. You can always add onion powder, smoked paprika, rosemary, sage, cayenne for a little heat or even sprinkle on a little brown sugar to really get the butternut squash to caramelize.
  • Oil Application: Lightly coat the butternut squash cubes with a small amount of oil before air frying. This helps with the crisping process and enhances the flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 112kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 589mg | Potassium: 630mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 18897IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 87mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this Recipe? Tag me Today!Mention @KatieJasiewicz or tag #katiescucina!
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About Katie

Katie is a busy mom of 2 children who loves to feed her family delicious meals that don't take hours to cook! She started her blog 15 years ago as a way to help others get cooking in the kitchen.

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I'm Katie Jasiewicz: home cook, food blogger, and recipe developer. A busy mom of two children who loves to feed her family delicious meals that don’t take hours to cook! My mission is to create easy-to-make modern comfort food for the busy family. (more)

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