Name: Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional); 4 heaping cups peeled and diced butternut squash (1-inch cubes, 24 ounces); 1 tablespoon olive oil

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When I first discovered the magic of air frying, I knew I had to experiment with vegetables, and that’s when I stumbled upon Air Fryer Butternut Squash. The first time I made it, I was a bit skeptical. Would it really come out as delicious as roasting it in the oven? But I was pleasantly surprised! The squash turned out beautifully caramelized and tender, with a slight crisp on the outside. It became an instant favorite at my dinner table, and since then, I have made it countless times. It’s become a go-to side dish, especially during the cooler months.

Cooking with butternut squash always brings me back to the fall season when these golden beauties are plentiful. The sweet and nutty flavor of the squash pairs perfectly with the spices, creating a dish that’s not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. I love how simple it is to prepare; just toss the cubes in the air fryer and let the magic happen. The smell that fills the kitchen is almost as charming as the taste itself. If you haven’t tried Air Fryer Butternut Squash yet, you’re in for a treat!

Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, for a cozy family dinner, or just as a healthy snack, this recipe will surely impress. It’s a dish that speaks to comfort, warmth, and a touch of sophistication, making it a perfect addition to any meal. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to fall in love with this easy and delicious recipe!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
1 g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer

Why This Air Fryer Butternut Squash Is a Winner

Quick and Simple Preparation

One of the primary reasons I absolutely adore Air Fryer Butternut Squash is its simplicity. You can have it ready in no time. Just peel, cube, and toss the squash with your favorite seasonings. The air fryer does all the hard work, leaving you free to focus on the rest of your meal.

Perfect Texture Every Time

The air fryer provides a unique cooking method that allows the squash to become perfectly tender while achieving a delightful crispiness. You’ll get that satisfying crunch on the outside while the inside remains soft and flavorful. It’s a texture lovers’ dream.

Health Benefits Galore

Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. When you prepare it with minimal oil in the air fryer, you’re keeping it healthy without sacrificing flavor. It’s guilt-free indulgence at its best!

Versatile and Customizable

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can customize the spices based on your preferences. Whether you want it sweet with a hint of brown sugar or spicy with cayenne, you can easily adjust the flavors. This makes it an excellent side for any main course.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and enjoy meal prepping, Air Fryer Butternut Squash is a must-try. It keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays. You can add it to salads, grain bowls, or just enjoy it as a side.

Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Butternut Squash

In this recipe, the ingredients work in perfect harmony to enhance the natural sweetness of the butternut squash. Each component plays a vital role in creating a deliciously satisfying dish. Let’s explore the key players that make this recipe shine!

1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder: This adds a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the squash.
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses a warm richness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika: Provides a subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a gentle kick, elevating the dish without overpowering it.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
1 teaspoon brown sugar, optional: A touch of sweetness that caramelizes during cooking, making it extra delicious.
4 heaping cups peeled and diced butternut squash, 1-inch cubes, about 24 ounces: The star of the show, providing creaminess and natural sweetness.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices adhere and promotes that lovely crispiness.

Making This Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the process of making this delightful Air Fryer Butternut Squash. It’s a straightforward adventure that will fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this regularly!

Start by preparing your butternut squash. Peel it carefully, and then cut it into 1-inch cubes. Make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Once you have your cubes, place them in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil and toss the squash until the pieces are evenly coated. This step is essential for that lovely crisp texture.
Now it’s time to season! In a separate bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and brown sugar if you’re using it. Mix it well.
Sprinkle the spice mixture over the cubed squash, ensuring every piece is well coated. This is where the magic happens as the flavors meld together.
Preheat your air fryer to 340°F (170°C). This is a crucial step that ensures your squash cooks evenly and gets that perfect crisp.
Once preheated, place the seasoned squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow for maximum airflow.
Air fry the squash for 20 to 23 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want the squash to be fork-tender and lightly golden.
While the squash is cooking, you can enjoy the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen. It’s hard to resist sneaking a piece!
When the timer goes off, check if the squash is tender. If it’s not quite there, add a few more minutes as needed. The cooking time may vary based on the size of your cubes.
Once tender, carefully remove the squash from the air fryer. Drizzle with a little more olive oil if desired and give it one last toss to combine all the flavors.
Serve your Air Fryer Butternut Squash hot, and enjoy this deliciously sweet and savory side dish!

Things Worth Knowing

Know your air fryer: Different models may require slightly different cooking times. Keep an eye on your squash to prevent overcooking.
Cut uniformly: Make sure the squash cubes are of equal size for even cooking. This will ensure every piece is perfectly tender.
Don’t skip the preheat: Preheating your air fryer is essential for achieving that crispy texture. It helps the squash cook evenly.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Add herbs or other spices for a unique twist!

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re ready to tackle your own version of Air Fryer Butternut Squash, here are some great tips to help you along the way:

Storage: Store any leftover squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked squash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, or as part of a grain bowl.
Variations: Try adding maple syrup for a sweeter taste, or toss with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch.
Make it spicy: For a kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chili powder to the spice mix.

Serve This Air Fryer Butternut Squash With

Serving Air Fryer Butternut Squash is an opportunity to get creative with your meals! Here are some fantastic ideas on how to enjoy it:

As a Side Dish: Pair this squash with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also goes well with roasted meats during holiday gatherings.
In Salads: Add it to warm grain salads with quinoa or farro, along with some greens for a filling lunch.
With Dips: Serve it with a yogurt-based dip or hummus for a tasty snack during gatherings.
As Part of a Bowl: Layer it in a bowl with brown rice, black beans, and avocado for a wholesome meal.
For Breakfast: Mix it into scrambled eggs for a delightful breakfast treat that packs a nutritional punch.

FAQ

You’ll know your Air Fryer Butternut Squash is ready when it is fork-tender and lightly golden. It’s essential to shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. If you’re unsure, you can always test a cube with a fork; if it goes in easily, it’s done!

Absolutely! You can peel and cube your butternut squash a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply toss it with olive oil and spices and pop it in the air fryer.

The beauty of Air Fryer Butternut Squash is its versatility in terms of flavor. Besides the spices used in this recipe, you could experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a bit of curry powder for a unique twist. Feel free to play around with different combinations to find your favorite!

Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash, but be aware that it may release more moisture during cooking, which could affect the crispiness. If using frozen squash, you might need to adjust the cooking time and ensure it is spread out in a single layer in the air fryer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Air Fryer Butternut Squash is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with incredible taste. Its sweet and savory flavor profile makes it a versatile addition to any meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, as it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect as a side dish or a healthy snack, you’re sure to love it. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!