Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Introduction

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make side dish or snack, look no further than the Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe. This recipe helps you enjoy all the natural sweetness and rich flavors of butternut squash while keeping it light with minimal oil. Using an air fryer not only shortens cooking time but also ensures perfectly crispy and caramelized squash every time. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or just need a quick weeknight dinner addition, this recipe will not disappoint.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Butternut squash

About 2 ½ to 3 cups of peeled, seeded, and cubed butternut squash.

Olive oil

1 to 2 teaspoons of olive oil to lightly coat the squash.

Garlic powder

½ teaspoon to add depth and flavor.

Salt

½ teaspoon, or more to taste.

Black pepper

¼ teaspoon, freshly ground for the best taste.

Optional herbs and spices

A sprinkle of paprika, cayenne, or rosemary for an extra touch of flavor, according to your preference.

Prep Time

Prepping the butternut squash is quick and easy, taking around 10 minutes. Make sure to peel, remove the seeds, and cut the squash into evenly-sized cubes for even cooking. A sharp knife makes this step even smoother. Toss the squash cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices in a mixing bowl to coat them evenly. It’s that simple!

Cook Time

Using your air fryer makes the cooking process even more efficient. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the butternut squash cubes in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides are browned and crispy. You’ll know your squash is ready when the edges turn golden and the center becomes tender.

Total Time

From start to finish, this recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s the perfect quick recipe to whip up on a busy weeknight or when you’re in a rush but still want to prepare something healthy and tasty.

Yield

This recipe yields enough for 4 servings, making it ideal for a family dinner or as a meal prep addition. The flavorful and versatile nature of this dish also means you can scale up the quantities to serve more people for gatherings or special occasions.

Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe every time you make it!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash

– Start by peeling the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler. Remove the skin completely.
– Cut off both ends of the squash and slice it in half lengthwise to expose the seeds.
– Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and the stringy pulp. Discard these or save the seeds for roasting separately.
– Chop the butternut squash into small cubes, about 1-inch pieces.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

– Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Allow it to preheat for at least 3 to 5 minutes if your air fryer has a preheating function.

Step 3: Season the Squash

– Place the butternut squash cubes in a mixing bowl.
– Drizzle with olive oil to coat evenly.
– Add your chosen seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other spices or herbs you prefer. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 4: Load the Air Fryer

– Place the seasoned butternut squash cubes into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Work in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Cook the Squash

– Cook the butternut squash at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes.
– About halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket or use tongs to toss the squash for even crisping.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

– After the time is up, check if the squash is tender by piercing it with a fork. It should easily slide through.
– Continue cooking in 2-minute increments if you prefer softer or more caramelized squash.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

– Once done, remove the butternut squash from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving dish.
– Serve warm as a side dish or use it in salads, grain bowls, or other recipes.

Notes

Note 1: Adjust Seasonings

– Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to match your taste preferences or specific recipe needs.

Note 2: Storage and Reheating

– Store any leftover air-fried butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Reheat it in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.

Note 3: Air Fryer Capacity

– If you have a smaller air fryer, avoid overcrowding the basket by working in multiple batches for best results.

Note 4: Alternative Cooking Oils

– Swap olive oil for avocado oil, coconut oil, or any neutral-flavored cooking oil if preferred.

Note 5: Optional Sweet Variations

– Try a sweeter variation by seasoning the squash with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of brown sugar or honey before air frying.

Note 6: Time Variations

– Depending on the size of your squash cubes, cooking time may vary slightly. Smaller cubes cook faster, while larger ones take a bit longer.

Note 7: Serving Ideas

– Pair air-fried butternut squash with roasted meats, serve as part of a vegetarian dish, or mix into warm salads or soups for added flavor.
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Cook Techniques

Cutting the Butternut Squash

Peel and deseed the butternut squash. Use a sharp knife to cut it into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking in the air fryer.

Preheating the Air Fryer

For best results, preheat the air fryer for 3–5 minutes before adding the butternut squash. This ensures quicker and even cooking.

Using Oil and Seasonings

Lightly coat the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, as this helps prevent sticking and gives them a crispy texture. Season generously with spices or herbs of choice.

Cooking in Batches

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure the squash cooks evenly. If necessary, cook in multiple batches.

Shaking the Basket

Shake the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking process for an even, golden texture on all sides of the cubes.

Adjusting Cooking Time

Keep an eye on the butternut squash as cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model and cube size. Typically, it takes 15-20 minutes at 375°F.

FAQ

Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash, but remember to adjust the cooking time and skip the thawing step to avoid sogginess.

What seasonings work best with air fryer butternut squash?

Popular choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, and even a sprinkle of brown sugar for a sweet variation.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooked butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer to retain crispiness.

Can I add other vegetables to the air fryer with butternut squash?

Yes, you can mix other vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts, but ensure all pieces are cut uniformly to cook evenly.

What can I serve with air fryer butternut squash?

Air fryer butternut squash pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, salad, or as a standalone healthy snack.

Do I need to peel the butternut squash?

Yes, it’s best to peel the butternut squash before cooking, as the skin does not soften much during air frying.

How do I prevent my squash from becoming too soft?

To maintain a crispy texture, avoid overcooking and ensure the squash cubes are evenly coated with oil.

What size should I cut the butternut squash cubes?

Aim for cubes that are about 1-inch in size. This ensures they cook evenly without being undercooked or too mushy.

Is an air fryer healthier than roasting in the oven?

An air fryer typically uses less oil than oven roasting, making it a healthier option for preparing butternut squash.

Conclusion

Air fryer roasted butternut squash is a simple, healthy, and incredibly versatile dish that can serve as a side, main, or even dessert. Its tender texture and natural sweetness make it a perfect option for a variety of meals. Whether you enjoy it as a savory snack or a sweet delight, air-fried butternut squash is sure to be a delicious addition to your culinary repertoire.

More Recipes Suggestions and Combination

Air Fryer Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts

Combine air-fried butternut squash with Brussels sprouts for a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder for a balanced side dish.

Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad

Use roasted butternut squash as the base of a quinoa salad. Add dried cranberries, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy and quick meal idea.

Air Fryer Squash Medley

Mix butternut squash cubes with zucchini and yellow squash for a vibrant medley. Roast them together with some seasoning for a colorful side dish.

Butternut Squash Tacos

Use air-fried butternut squash as a flavorful taco filling. Add black beans, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime for a creative vegetarian taco option.

Squash Soup Garnish

Top a creamy butternut squash soup with crispy cubes of air-fried squash. This adds a delicious texture and enhances the dish visually.

Side for Grilled Proteins

Pair air-fried butternut squash with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. Its sweetness complements the smoky flavors of grilled proteins beautifully.

Sweet Maple Glazed Squash

For a sweet treat, drizzle maple syrup over the air-fried butternut squash and sprinkle with cinnamon. Serve it as a dessert or a cozy snack.