Air Fryer Butternut Squash
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My air fryer butternut squash turns out buttery, crisp-edged, and full of flavor in about 20 minutes. It’s the ultimate easy side dish.
Once the leaves change, I’m dying to make more squash recipes. Butternut squash is my favorite because it’s naturally sweet and can be used in a variety of cooking methods.
Lately, we’ve been air frying it, and it’s quickly become my go-to. I’ve tested it in a few different air fryers (I own four, seriously), and the secret is cutting the squash into evenly sized cubes so that the hot air circulates properly. This method reduces surface moisture while caramelizing the natural sugars, giving you those golden, crisp edges in under 20 minutes.
My family loves this as an elevated side dish, but my partner loves it tossed through a salad or as a base for over easy eggs (don’t knock it until you try it!).
Table of Contents
Why my recipe never fails
- 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.
What readers are saying
★★★★★ – “I never thought to cook butternut squash in the air fryer- it’s so tasty and easy.” – Lucy
★★★★★ – “This tastes just as good as oven-roasted butternut squash!” – Melinda from Facebook
Key Ingredients
Find the printable recipe with measurements below.
- 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.
Recipe variations
Because I make this dish so often, I’ve experimented with a few different ways of serving it:
- 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.
How to make air fryer butternut squash
Step 1- Prep the squash. Place the chopped squash in a large bowl and drizzle with oil. Sprinkle the sugar and spices over the mixture and toss to coat.
Step 2- Air fry. Place the squash in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) 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. I’ve tested both fresh-cut and pre-packaged, and the main difference is size: larger store-bought cubes often take 3-5 minutes longer to cook through. If you’re using them, check for doneness with a fork rather than relying solely on my standard air frying time.
- Place the squash in a single layer so each piece has equal access to the circulating hot air. Stacked pieces lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Shake the basket periodically. Every air fryer has “hot spots”. Shaking the basket helps redistribute the cubes so they caramelize evenly, giving you that balance of soft centers and golden edges. I’ve found this especially important when making bigger batches.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, butternut squash should always be peeled, unlike other types of squash, which can be eaten with the peels on.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For the best texture, let the squash cool before sealing.
Yes. Once cooked, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To prevent sticking, you can freeze the cubes in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a bag.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 3-4 minutes to bring back the crisp edges. The microwave works in 20-second bursts if you’re short on time, but the texture will be softer.
✅ Nutrition reviewed
Since this butternut squash recipe discusses health benefits, the nutrition information has been reviewed by registered dietitian Felicia Newell, MScAHN, RD, CPT.
Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Video
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 400°F (200°C).
- 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 minutes, or until browned around the sides.
Notes
- Leftovers: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or the freezer for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
More tasty air fryer veggies
- Air fryer Brussels sprouts
- Air fryer okra
- Air fryer acorn squash
- Air fryer carrots
- Air fryer corn on the cob
Originally published September 2024, updated and republished September 2025
I never made butternut like this before. But I like it the most.
I am having a problem finding the actual video’s on your recipes. When I click “jump to video” all I see is the word “Video” but it is not a link. What am I missing please?
Sorry to hear that, Bri- let me troubleshoot that for you and find a solution!
I didnt tried thyme before. It is similar to what spice?
Love your air fryer butternut squash so much!!!
This air fryer butternut squash is so tender and sweet with minimal seasonings- I love it!
Thanks, Elektra!
This air fryer butternut squash is too delicious for words.
This is the most delicious air fryer butternut squash recipe ever. Thank you!
Thank you, Selena!
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!
If you don’t have an airfryer, how can you make the receipe in the oven?
Air Fryer Butternut Squash?
Hi Barb- Preheat the oven to 350F and once hot, place a greased baking sheet with the squash on it and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until fork tender.
Friends, my air fryer butternut squash is my favorite way to cook this squash now. It makes a healthy side dish or holiday appetizer!