There’s something magical about the way Air Fryer Butternut Squash crisps up on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. The aroma of roasted squash with warm spices fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for any season. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a healthy snack, air frying butternut squash is a game changer—quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious.

The first time I made air fried butternut squash, it was purely by accident. I had leftover cubed squash from another dish and decided to toss it into the air fryer with some olive oil and spices. To my surprise, the result was golden perfection—caramelized edges with a slight crunch and a rich, nutty flavor. From that moment on, it became a staple in my kitchen, perfect for pairing with roasted meats, grain bowls, or even enjoying straight from the basket as a snack.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Quick & Easy: No need to turn on the oven – ready in under 30 minutes.
Crispy & Tender: The air fryer gives it a perfect texture – crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
Versatile: Great as a side dish, in salads, or even as a snack.
Diet-Friendly: Suitable for gluten-free, vegan, keto, paleo, and Whole30 diets.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Step 1: Preparation

Before you begin, gather the necessary ingredients and tools:

Ingredients

4 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tsp onion powder
1 ½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp sweet paprika
⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
½ tsp kosher salt
1 tsp brown sugar (optional)

Tools You Need

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Tongs or spatula

Step 2: Cooking

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Place the diced butternut squash in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and brown sugar.
Sprinkle the spice mixture over the squash and toss well to coat.
Transfer the seasoned squash to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry for 20-23 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
When the squash is golden brown and fork-tender, remove it from the air fryer.

Step 3: Serving & Customization

For a sweet touch: Drizzle with maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon.
For a savory option: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
To add crunch: Top with toasted pecans or walnuts.
Make it spicy: Add an extra dash of cayenne pepper.

FAQs About Air Fryer Butternut Squash

How long does it take to cook butternut squash in an air fryer?

Typically, it takes 20-23 minutes at 375°F (190°C), but timing may vary based on the size of your squash pieces.

Do I need to peel butternut squash before air frying?

Yes, peeling the squash is recommended for the best texture. However, if using a baby butternut squash, the skin may be left on.

Can I make butternut squash fries in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Simply cut the squash into fry shapes instead of cubes and cook at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best seasoning for air fryer butternut squash?

For a classic taste, use salt, garlic powder, and paprika. To add sweetness, sprinkle cinnamon and maple syrup before serving.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, but frozen squash may take an extra 5-10 minutes to cook and might not be as crispy as fresh squash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Air Fried Butternut Squash

Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Too many pieces will steam rather than crisp up. Cook in batches if necessary.
Skipping the Oil: A little oil helps the seasonings stick and improves texture.
Not Shaking the Basket: Stirring halfway through ensures even cooking.
Using Too Much Sugar: If adding brown sugar or maple syrup, a small amount is enough to enhance flavors.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Butternut Squash

This dish pairs well with a variety of main courses and sides, including:

Roasted Chicken: A classic protein pairing.
Air Fryer Pork Chops: For a quick and flavorful meal.
Quinoa Salad: Add it for extra nutrition and texture.
Baked Salmon: Complements the natural sweetness of butternut squash.
Brussels Sprouts or Green Beans: For a nutrient-packed plate.

For those who enjoy trying different butternut squash dishes, you might also like this Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna, a delightful twist on a classic comfort meal.

If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious beef recipe, check out this Crockpot Beef and Noodles, which pairs beautifully with this air fryer squash.

And for those who love cheese-based dishes, you won’t want to miss this Cheesy Chicken Pasta, a perfect creamy complement to this crispy side dish.

Conclusion

Cooking butternut squash in the air fryer is an easy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable in a quick, crispy, and flavorful way. Whether you’re meal prepping, making a side dish for dinner, or creating a delicious snack, this recipe is a must-try.

With its crispy exterior and soft interior, air fried butternut squash is the perfect combination of flavor and convenience. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences.

Try it today and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family who love easy, healthy air fryer recipes. Happy cooking!