Air-Fryer Butternut Squash: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and grain bowls to soups and wraps. It is also a healthy option, being high in fibre and gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and low in calories. One convenient way to cook butternut squash is by using an air fryer, which can significantly reduce the cooking time compared to using an oven. In this article, we will explore the different ways to cook butternut squash in an air fryer, including the use of different seasonings and add-ins to enhance the flavour and texture. We will also provide tips on how to store leftover squash and adjust cooking times depending on the size and ripeness of the squash.

Seasoning options

Seasoning your butternut squash is a great way to add flavour and make it taste even better. You can season your butternut squash with a variety of spices, herbs, and sweeteners.

A savoury spice mix can include onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. You can also add black pepper and cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for a slightly sweeter taste. For a spicier option, add more cayenne pepper or chilli powder. Fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, sage, or thyme can be tossed with the squash after it comes out of the air fryer.

You can also add sweeteners to your butternut squash for a cozy fall dessert taste. Coconut sugar, brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup can be added before or after cooking. If you add maple syrup before cooking, the syrup may burn, so it is recommended to add it after.

How to cut butternut squash

Butternut squash is a tricky vegetable to prepare due to its odd shape, thick skin, and firm texture. Here is a step-by-step guide to safely cutting a butternut squash:

Firstly, select a ripe butternut squash that is free of punctures or surface wounds, feeling heavy for its size, and without a greenish cast to its beige skin.

Before cutting, rinse the squash to wash off any surface dirt. It is also recommended to pierce the skin with a knife and microwave the squash for 3 minutes to tenderize the flesh and make it easier to cut.

Now, use a sharp chef's knife to cut off the top and bottom ends of the squash, about 0.5-1 inch from each end, and discard them. With the squash standing upright, use a sharp vegetable peeler to peel the skin off.

Next, place the squash on its curvy side and cut it in half lengthwise down the center. Then, slice each piece in half again lengthwise so that you have 4 pieces. Use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds and pulp.

Finally, cut the squash into your desired size and shape. For air frying, it is recommended to cut the squash into even-sized cubes, around 1-1.5 inches in size.

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time and temperature for butternut squash in an air fryer depend on the size of the squash cubes and the specific air fryer being used. It is important to note that the cooking time may also vary based on the ripeness of the squash.

For larger pieces of butternut squash, the cooking time can range from 20 to 35 minutes. Specifically, one source recommends cooking at 340°F for 20 to 23 minutes, while another suggests cooking at 356°F for 30 minutes. If your squash is cut into larger pieces, you may need to increase the cooking time accordingly.

For smaller cubes, the cooking time is generally shorter, ranging from 10 to 18 minutes. One source recommends cooking at 380°F for about 18 minutes, while another suggests cooking at 356°F for 15 minutes. It is important to shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even browning and to avoid uneven cooking.

Additionally, the size of your air fryer basket may impact the cooking time. If you have a smaller basket, you may need to cook the squash in batches or add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

When cooking frozen butternut squash in an air fryer, it is important to leave space between the pieces and cook in batches if necessary. Frozen squash will not get as crispy or caramelized as fresh squash, but it can be cooked at similar temperatures and times as fresh squash, with a little extra cooking time.

Storage and reheating

Storing and Reheating Air-Fried Butternut Squash

You can store uncooked, chopped butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking. To store cooked leftovers, allow them to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to four to five days.

To reheat, you can place the cubed squash in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for three to five minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Alternatively, you can reheat the squash in a skillet on the stovetop over low heat, in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, or in the microwave until warmed through. The oven, stovetop, or air fryer will give you the best consistency; microwaving the squash will warm it up but won't make it crispy.

You can also freeze cooked butternut squash by spreading the pieces across a baking tray and placing them in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the pieces to a Ziplock bag and store them in the freezer for up to three to four months. Thaw the frozen squash in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Note that frozen and thawed squash will have a softer texture than fresh squash.

What to serve with butternut squash

Butternut squash is a versatile vegetable that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:

Salads

Butternut squash can be a great addition to a salad. You can roast or air-fry the squash and add it to a salad with quinoa, arugula, walnuts, and pomegranate, drizzled with a maple dressing. You can also try a roasted butternut squash salad, a kale, apple, and cranberry salad with maple dressing, or a Waldorf salad. For a heartier salad, add some roasted sweet potatoes, farro, and kale.

Soups

Butternut squash can be used to make a smooth and creamy soup, such as a roasted butternut squash soup or a butternut squash and black bean soup.

Proteins

Butternut squash can be served with a variety of proteins, such as roasted chicken, oven-fried chicken, turkey breast, or crispy baked pork chops. For a vegetarian option, try a kale and butternut squash dish with pears and almonds. You can also serve it with vegetarian enchiladas or baked sage chicken meatballs with creamy orzo and spinach.

Sides

Butternut squash can be served with a variety of sides, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or greens. You can also try more indulgent sides like bacon and white cabbage gratin or garlic butter green beans with dried cranberries and toasted almonds.

Frequently asked questions