Try this quick and easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash recipe! A healthy, savory side dish that’s perfect for any meal and a must-try for butternut squash lovers!
Air Fryer Butternut Squash
I’m obsessed with my air fryer—it’s seriously my kitchen MVP! If you’re as air fryer-crazy as I am, check out my other air fryer recipes or grab one of my air fryer cookbooks for even more ideas. This air fryer butternut squash is a total win: it’s healthy, packed with fiber, and checks all the boxes—gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and super low in calories. Perfect for any meal!
The Easiest Way to Cook Butternut Squash
I’m all about quick and easy, and air-frying butternut squash is a total game-changer! It cooks way faster than in the oven—plus, no need to heat up your kitchen. Want to save even more time? Grab some precut butternut squash from the store. If you’re peeling and cutting it yourself, try my go-to trick to make it a breeze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Instructions
1. Adding Diced Butternut Squash to Air Fryer
Diced butternut squash ready in the air fryer basket, lightly sprayed with olive oil for a perfect roast.
2. Air Frying Butternut Squash
Butternut squash air-frying to golden perfection at 340°F for 20 to 23 minutes with a gentle shake for even cooking.
3. Mixing Spice Blend for Butternut Squash
A flavorful spice mix with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and a hint of brown sugar.
4. Drizzling Olive Oil Over Cooked Squash
Tender, golden butternut squash drizzled with olive oil and ready for seasoning.
5. Tossing Roasted Squash with Spices
Roasted squash tossed with a savory spice blend for a deliciously seasoned finish.
6. Air Frying Seasoned Butternut Squash
Butternut squash finishing in the air fryer for an extra-crispy and flavorful bite. Hot, spiced, and perfectly roasted butternut squash served fresh from the air fryer.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Butternut Squash
This squash is super versatile, and you can enjoy it in so many ways! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Toss it over greens to make a hearty harvest salad.
- Pair it with roasted chicken or crispy baked pork chops for a comforting dinner.
- Meal prep it with air fryer chicken breast and veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for easy bowls.
- Mix it into scrambled eggs for a healthy breakfast side.
Do I Need to Peel Butternut Squash Before Air Frying?
Absolutely! If you’re cutting the squash into cubes, it’s easiest to peel it first using a vegetable peeler. Don’t feel like peeling? Save time by grabbing pre-cut butternut squash from the store.
Variations
There are so many fun ways to switch up this Air Fryer Butternut Squash! Here are a few ideas to try:
- Add a pinch of salt and cinnamon or even pumpkin pie spice for a cozy, fall-inspired flavor.
- Swap out the brown sugar for a drizzle of maple syrup—it’s just as delicious with your favorite seasonings!
- Don’t like spicy food? Simply leave out the cayenne and keep it mild.
- Using pre-cut butternut squash? You might need to add a few extra minutes since it’s often cut into larger chunks.
- Toss the squash with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and fresh thyme for a savory twist.
- For a hint of citrus, add a squeeze of fresh orange juice after cooking.
Did You Enjoy This Recipe?
If you loved this Quick and Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash, recipe be sure to check out some of our other easy Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe and meal ideas for your next gathering! You can also sign up for our newsletter to get the latest recipes delivered right to your inbox.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, toss them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Want to keep some for later? Freeze the squash in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat when you’re ready. It’s a great way to have an easy, healthy side dish ready for busy days!
More Healthy Air Fryer Recipes
Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Ingredients
- 4 heaping cups of peeled and diced butternut squash 1-inch cubes, about 24 ounces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar optional for a touch of sweetness
Instructions
- Add the diced butternut squash to your air fryer basket and give it a light spray of olive oil.
- Air fry at 340°F for 20 to 23 minutes*, shaking the basket a few times so everything cooks evenly until the squash is fork-tender and golden.
- While it’s cooking, mix the onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne, salt, and brown sugar (if using) in a small bowl.
- Once the squash is tender, drizzle it with olive oil and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the squash and toss gently to cover every piece.
- Pop it back in the air fryer for another 3 to 4 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
