Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe
If you’re looking for a vibrant, comforting dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor, this Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe is absolutely the way to go. It’s incredibly straightforward to prepare, transforming sweet, nutty butternut squash into irresistibly crispy, tender bites with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe makes a perfect side or snack that feels cozy and fresh all at once. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together and how much your kitchen will smell like autumn in the best way possible!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for just a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays an essential role: from the sweetness of the butternut squash, the subtle warmth of cinnamon, to the richness of olive oil that helps achieve that perfect crisp. These ingredients create a dish that’s colorful, flavorful, and totally approachable for anyone’s kitchen.
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed: The star of the show, providing a creamy texture and natural sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps the squash crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Offers a gentle kick that rounds out the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory depth without overpowering the squash.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a subtle warmth and earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the squash’s natural flavor.
How to Make Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Start by peeling your butternut squash carefully, trimming off both ends before slicing it in half lengthwise. Scooping out the seeds is important to ensure each cube cooks evenly without any surprises. Next, dice the squash into uniform 1-inch cubes so they roast perfectly golden and tender in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season the Cubes
Place your cubed squash into a large mixing bowl, then drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle on salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cinnamon if using. Toss everything together thoroughly so every cube is evenly coated, guaranteeing a flavorful result in every bite.
Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer
For the best crispiness, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step helps create that lovely caramelized exterior on the squash cubes while keeping them tender inside.
Step 4: Air Fry the Squash
Arrange your seasoned cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding for even cooking. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides get that irresistible golden-brown color that signals they’re done.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once cooked to perfection, serve your easily-prepared butternut squash right away. The warmth and crunch make it an ideal side or snack. If you want to add a little extra flair, try drizzling with balsamic glaze or sprinkling fresh herbs on top.
How to Serve Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance this recipe’s natural sweetness and cozy vibes with simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds also adds lovely texture and flavor contrast that will impress any guest.
Side Dishes
This Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe pairs beautifully alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or quinoa salads. Its balance of sweet and savory notes makes it a versatile side that complements both light and hearty meals with ease.
Creative Ways to Present
For something a little unexpected, try tossing the air-fried squash into a warm grain bowl with kale and a tahini dressing, or blend it into a velvety soup base. You can even stuff it into tacos or top a flatbread alongside caramelized onions and goat cheese for a show-stopping dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, let the squash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the squash will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, ready to brighten your meals all week long.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked butternut squash by spreading the cubes on a baking sheet to flash freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen squash keeps well for up to 3 months and is perfect to have on hand for quick meal add-ins.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in your air fryer for just a few minutes to restore that crispy exterior, or warm gently in the oven or microwave if you prefer a softer texture. This way, every bite retains that fresh-from-the-air-fryer appeal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen butternut squash in this Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe?
Fresh butternut squash works best here to achieve that crispy texture, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and pat the cubes dry to avoid sogginess. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them while air frying.
Is it necessary to peel the butternut squash?
Peeling the squash ensures tenderness and prevents any tough or chewy skin pieces. However, if you prefer, you can leave it on for added nutrition but expect a different texture.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to your seasoning mix will give a nice kick without overpowering the squash’s natural sweetness.
What air fryer size do I need?
A medium-sized air fryer with a basket capacity of around 3 to 5 quarts works well to cook the squash evenly in a single layer. If your basket is smaller, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Can I use other types of squash?
While butternut squash is ideal for this recipe, you can experiment with varieties like kabocha or delicata. Just adjust cooking times slightly based on the squash’s firmness and moisture content.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably satisfying about an Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe that’s quick to prepare yet full of flavor and texture. I genuinely hope you give this delightful dish a try—it’s like a little hug of autumn in every bite and has become a go-to for weeknights and special meals alike. Enjoy every crispy, tender cube!
Print
Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for perfectly roasted butternut squash made effortlessly in the air fryer. This recipe features tender, golden-brown cubes of squash seasoned with garlic, cinnamon, and a touch of olive oil, ready in just 30 minutes. Ideal as a healthy side dish or a nutritious snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash: Peel the butternut squash, cut off both ends, and slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and dice the squash into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Season the Squash: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed squash with extra virgin olive oil, salt, freshly cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and ground cinnamon until all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes to ensure a crispy texture.
- Air Fry the Squash: Place the seasoned butternut squash cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer to promote even cooking. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to brown the squash evenly and achieve a fork-tender texture.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the butternut squash warm. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze or garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a sweeter flavor, add a little maple syrup before cooking.
- Make sure the squash pieces are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispiness.
- If you prefer softer squash, increase cooking time by a few minutes.
- Leftover roasted butternut squash can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
