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My air fryer butternut squash recipe yields tender, perfectly seasoned squash in minutes! It’s so easy to make and is the perfect side dish.
Love making vegetables in the air fryer? Try my air fryer Brussels sprouts, air fryer okra, air fryer carrots, and air fryer corn on the cob.
Once the leaves change, I’m dying to make more squash recipes. Butternut squash has to be my favorite because it’s naturally sweet and can be used in a variety of cooking methods.
Lately, we’ve been air frying it. Not only is it fast and foolproof, but it gives the squash the perfect texture. It’s buttery, soft yet crisp around the edges, and full of flavor despite the short list of ingredients.
Table of Contents
Why I love this recipe
- It’s so healthy. One serving of squash has plenty of fiber and antioxidants while being low in calories. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegan.
- Fast. Squash is quite firm and usually takes a while to cook, but the air fryer method will have it done in under 20 minutes.
- Kids love it. I have a few picky eaters in my house, and I can guarantee even if they ‘hate’ veggies, they’ll love this recipe.
- It makes great leftovers. I like to toss it back in the air fryer with bacon and serve it with over-medium eggs for breakfast, but that’s just me…
Ingredients needed
- Butternut squash. Look for squash that’s firm with no bruised spots. It’ll need to be peeled with a vegetable peeler and cut into even-sized 1-inch cubes.
- Oil. I used olive oil, but avocado oil or any neutral cooking oil will do.
- Brown sugar. Just a pinch to complement the flavors of the squash.
- Spices. I used garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Salt and black pepper. To taste.
- Fresh thyme. For garnish. Fresh rosemary is a great substitution.
How to make air fryer butternut squash
I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Step 1- Prep the squash. Place the chopped squash in a large bowl and drizzle with oil. Sprinkle the sugar and spices and toss to coat.
Step 2- Air fry. Place the squash in the air fryer basket and cook for 20 min at 200C/400F until lightly browned and fork tender.
Arman’s recipe tips
- Save time. When I’m in a pinch, I’ll use pre-cut butternut squash cubes. Just keep in mind that if the cubes are bigger, then you’ll want to extend the cooking time.
- Place the squash in a single layer. You want every piece to have equal access to the heat for maximum crispiness.
- Shake the basket periodically. So it cooks and browns evenly.
Variations
- Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup for a more caramelized texture and flavor. It’s what I sometimes do with my air fryer apples and it completely transforms the taste!
- Garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds or candied pecans for a little crunch.
- Swap the spices. Try cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or chili powder.
Storage instructions
To store: Transfer leftover air-fried butternut squash to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to five days.
To freeze: Store the cooled leftover squash in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating: Microwave leftovers in 20-second intervals or reheat them in a preheated air fryer until warm.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, butternut squash should always be peeled, unlike other types of squash, which can be eaten with the peels on.
I don’t recommend using any squash with discolored spots or evident black, bruised patches.
More ways to cook squash
- Oven roasted honeynut squash
- Low-carb chicken casserole
- Spaghetti squash casserole
- Buttercup squash soup
Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Ingredients
- 4 cups butternut squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 200C/400F.
- Place the chopped squash in a bowl and drizzle with the olive oil.
- Sprinkle the squash with brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh thyme, salt, and smoked paprika, and mix well, until the squash is fully coated.
- Place the squash in the air fryer basket and air fry for 15-17 minutes, or until browned around the sides.
this is SO tasty and I love how caramelized the sqaush becomes!
Right?!
First time making butternut squash in air fryer. This was so delicious, I loved the crispy edges! Thank you!
Thank you, Jeannie!
Absolutely delicious! Thank you so much for sharing
So welcome, Serena!
I never made butternut squash in air fryer before. I must to try!
Friends, my air fryer butternut squash is my favorite way to cook this squash now. It makes a healthy side dish or holiday appetizer!