How Do You Cook Butternut Squash In The Air Fryer? Quick & Simple

Yes, you can cook butternut squash in the air fryer! It’s a quick, simple, and healthy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. This guide provides all the air fryer butternut squash instructions you need, whether you’re aiming for crispy air fryer butternut squash or tender air fryer butternut squash cubes.

Image Source: evergreenkitchen.ca

Why Air Fry Butternut Squash?

Forget roasting for an hour! The air fryer offers several advantages:

• Speed: Air frying significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional roasting.
• Crispiness: The circulating hot air creates a beautifully caramelized and slightly crispy exterior.
• Convenience: It’s easier to clean up than a baking sheet and heats up faster than an oven.
• Healthier: You often need less oil when air frying. This means fewer calories and less fat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This basic air fryer butternut squash recipe requires just a few ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or other oil of your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Your favorite air fryer butternut squash seasoning (see suggestions below)

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Vegetable peeler (optional)
• Large bowl

Step-by-Step Air Fryer Butternut Squash Instructions

1. Preparing the Butternut Squash

• Wash the Squash: Rinse the butternut squash under cool water.
• Cut Off Ends: Cut off the top and bottom ends of the squash. This creates a stable base for cutting.
• Peel (Optional): Peeling is optional. Some people enjoy the skin (especially if it’s a smaller, younger squash), but others prefer to remove it. If peeling, use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin. Be careful, as butternut squash can be slippery.
• Cut in Half: Stand the squash on one of its flat ends and carefully cut it in half lengthwise, from top to bottom.
• Scoop Out Seeds: Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each half.
• Cut into Cubes: Place the flat side of each half down on the cutting board. Cut each half into 1-inch air fryer butternut squash cubes. Aim for roughly uniform size so they cook evenly.

2. Seasoning the Squash

• Place Cubes in Bowl: Transfer the butternut squash cubes to a large bowl.
• Add Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the squash.
• Season: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
• Toss: Toss everything together until the squash is evenly coated with oil and seasonings.

3. Air Frying the Butternut Squash

• Preheat (Optional): Some air fryers recommend preheating. Check your air fryer’s instructions. If preheating, set it to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Arrange in Basket: Place the seasoned butternut squash cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket; this will prevent the squash from getting crispy. If needed, cook in batches.
• Air Fry: Set the air frying butternut squash temperature to 400°F (200°C) and the air fryer butternut squash time to 15-20 minutes.
• Shake or Toss: Halfway through the cooking time (around 7-10 minutes), shake the basket or toss the squash cubes with tongs to ensure even cooking.
• Check for Doneness: After the initial cooking time, check the squash for doneness. It should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. If it’s not quite there, continue air frying for another 2-5 minutes, checking periodically.
• Serve: Remove the roasted butternut squash air fryer from the basket and serve immediately.

Air Fryer Butternut Squash Seasoning Ideas

Get creative with your air fryer butternut squash seasoning! Here are a few ideas:

• Simple & Savory: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika.
• Sweet & Spicy: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Mediterranean: Dried oregano, basil, thyme, a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking.
• Maple Glazed: Toss with maple syrup after cooking.
• Everything Bagel: Everything bagel seasoning.
• Chili Lime: Chili powder, lime zest, a squeeze of lime juice after cooking.
• Brown Sugar Cinnamon: Brown sugar, cinnamon, a pinch of salt.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Butternut Squash

• Cut Evenly: Uniformly sized cubes will cook at the same rate.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the air fryer basket steams the squash instead of roasting it. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Shake/Toss Regularly: Shaking or tossing ensures even browning and crisping.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Air fryers vary, so adjust the cooking time as needed. Check for doneness frequently.
• Use Enough Oil: A little oil helps the squash to crisp up. However, don’t use too much, or it will become soggy.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating helps to achieve a crisper result.

Serving Suggestions

Air fried butternut squash is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses. Here are a few ideas:

• Main Dish Accompaniment: Serve alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, steak, or fish.
• Salad Topping: Add to salads for a touch of sweetness and texture.
• Soup Garnish: Garnish butternut squash soup or other creamy soups.
• Grain Bowl Ingredient: Include in grain bowls with quinoa, brown rice, or farro.
• Tacos/Burritos: Add to tacos or burritos for a unique flavor twist.
• Pasta Dish: Toss with pasta, brown butter, and sage.
• Snack: Enjoy on its own as a healthy and satisfying snack.

Make it a Healthy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe

Here’s how to optimize the recipe for a truly healthy air fryer butternut squash experience:

• Use Avocado Oil or Olive Oil: These oils are high in monounsaturated fats, which are good for your heart.
• Go Easy on the Salt: Use a light hand with the salt, or substitute with herbs and spices to enhance flavor.
• Add Fiber: Sprinkle with chia seeds or flax seeds after cooking for an extra boost of fiber.
• Choose Natural Sweeteners: If using a sweetener, opt for maple syrup or honey in moderation.
• Load Up on Spices: Spices not only add flavor, but also provide antioxidants and other health benefits.

Different Air Fryer Models

The cooking time may vary depending on the type of air fryer you are using. Here’s a general guideline:

Air Fryer Type	Cooking Time (Approximate)	Temperature (°F)	Temperature (°C)
Basket Air Fryer	15-20 minutes	400°F	200°C
Oven-Style Air Fryer	20-25 minutes	400°F	200°C
Air Fryer with Rotisserie	20-25 minutes	400°F	200°C

Note: Always check for doneness by piercing the squash with a fork. If it’s not tender, continue cooking in 2-3 minute increments.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per Serving)

(Based on a recipe using 1 medium butternut squash, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and salt/pepper, divided into 4 servings):

• Calories: 150-200
• Fat: 8-12g
• Saturated Fat: 1-2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: Varies depending on salt used
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sugar: 5-8g
• Protein: 2-3g

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use frozen butternut squash cubes in the air fryer?

  Yes, you can. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to pat them dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
  * Do I need to peel the butternut squash before air frying?
  

  Peeling is optional. Some people enjoy the skin, especially on smaller, younger squash. However, the skin can be tough, so many prefer to peel it.
  * What temperature should I air fry butternut squash?
  

  The ideal air frying butternut squash temperature is 400°F (200°C).
  * How long does it take to air fry butternut squash?

  The air fryer butternut squash time is typically 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the cubes and your air fryer model.
  * How do I store leftover air fried butternut squash?

  Store leftover butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  * Can I reheat air fried butternut squash?

  Yes, you can reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes, or in the microwave.
  * Why isn’t my butternut squash crispy?

  Make sure you’re not overcrowding the air fryer basket. Also, ensure you’re using enough oil and cooking at a high enough temperature.
  * What other vegetables can I air fry with butternut squash?

  Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and carrots are all great options. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
  * Can I make butternut squash fries in the air fryer?

  Yes, cut the squash into fry shapes instead of cubes, and follow the same cooking instructions. You might need to increase the cooking time slightly.
  * Is air fried butternut squash healthy?

  Yes, healthy air fryer butternut squash is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Using less oil than traditional roasting makes it a healthier option.

Enjoy your delicious and easy air fryer butternut squash!