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!
