Air-Fryer Butternut Squash: Perfect Timing For Delicious Results

Butternut squash is a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be cooked in an air fryer to create a range of tasty dishes. The cooking time for butternut squash in an air fryer varies depending on the size of the squash and the desired level of doneness, but it typically takes around 15-30 minutes at temperatures between 340-390°F. In this article, we will explore different ways to cook butternut squash in an air fryer, including roasting, air frying, and different seasoning options to enhance the flavor of this sweet and savory vegetable.

How to prepare butternut squash for the air fryer

Preparing butternut squash for the air fryer is a simple process, but it does require a few steps to ensure the best results. Here is a detailed guide on how to get your butternut squash ready for cooking in an air fryer:

Step 1: Selecting and Preparing the Butternut Squash

Start by choosing a butternut squash that is fairly even in shape and width. This will make it easier to chop into evenly sized pieces, which is important for even cooking. You can also opt for pre-cut butternut squash to save time.

Using a sharp knife, cut off the top and bottom of the squash. Then, use a vegetable peeler to remove the tough outer skin. With the squash standing upright, cut it in half lengthwise.

Step 2: Removing Seeds and Scooping Out Pulp

Once the squash is halved, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp from the centre. You can discard the seeds or save them for roasting later.

Step 3: Cutting the Butternut Squash

For air frying, it is best to cut the butternut squash into cubes or similar small chunks. Cut the squash halves into 1-inch cubes or slices. This size ensures even cooking and allows for the best texture and browning.

Step 4: Seasoning the Butternut Squash

Place the cubed butternut squash into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or avocado oil and toss to coat evenly. Then, add your desired seasonings and toss again to ensure the squash is well-coated. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or try other seasonings like garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon, brown sugar, or a mix of spices.

Step 5: Arranging in the Air Fryer Basket

Place the seasoned butternut squash into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between the pieces. This allows for proper air circulation, ensuring that the squash gets crispy and caramelized. Overlapping the pieces may result in steaming instead of caramelization.

Step 6: Air Frying the Butternut Squash

Set your air fryer to the desired temperature, typically between 350°F and 390°F. Cook the butternut squash for about 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes to ensure even cooking. The squash is done when it is fork-tender and golden brown.

Tips for Success:

• Always use a sharp knife and a vegetable peeler to make the preparation process easier and safer.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
• Depending on the size and model of your air fryer, cooking times may vary, so be sure to check on the squash periodically to avoid overcooking.
• Get creative with your seasonings! Butternut squash pairs well with a variety of flavours, from savoury to sweet.

How long to cook butternut squash in the air fryer

The cooking time for butternut squash in an air fryer varies depending on the size of the squash and the temperature. For example, squash cooked at 390°F for 20 minutes will be ready sooner than squash cooked at 340°F for 20-23 minutes.

Method 1:

• Cut the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
• Toss the cubes with oil and seasonings.
• Place the seasoned squash into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Air fry at 380°F/193°C for about 18 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes until golden and fork-tender.

Method 2:

• Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
• Drizzle olive oil over the cut side of the squash and season with salt and pepper.
• Place the squash skin side down into the air fryer basket.
• Air fry at 356°F/180°C for 30 minutes.

Method 3:

• Cut the butternut squash into cubes.
• Place the cubes into the air fryer basket and drizzle with olive oil.
• Season with salt and pepper and toss to coat evenly.
• Spread the cubes out into a single layer.
• Air fry at 356°F/180°C for 15 minutes.

Method 4:

• Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
• Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Place the squash into the air fryer basket, cut side up.
• Air fry at 350°F for 40-50 minutes or until tender.

Method 5:

• Cut the butternut squash into cubes.
• Place the cubes into the air fryer basket and spray with olive oil spray.
• Air fry at 340°F for 20-23 minutes, shaking the basket a few times until fork-tender.

Tips:

• Check the butternut squash with a fork to ensure it is tender. If not, cook for an additional 5 minutes and test again.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
• Cut the butternut squash into evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
• All air fryers heat differently, so it is a good idea to check on the dish during the cooking time.

How to store leftover butternut squash

Storing leftover butternut squash is easy and can be done in a few simple ways.

Firstly, it's important to note that whole butternut squash is not normally refrigerated but, as it is a cool-weather crop, it does store well. For optimal long-term storage, choose a squash with a firm, hard rind, a smooth, buttery or beige colour, and at least an inch of stem intact. Avoid squash with blemishes, soft spots, or mould, as these will not keep for long. A ripe squash will feel heavy for its size.

If storing fresh, uncut squash, it is best to keep it in a cool, dark place, such as a basement or closet, where sunlight won't cause it to ripen too quickly. Under the right storage conditions, your butternut squash should last two to three months.

If you have cut up more squash than you need, you can store the unused portion in the fridge for at least four days. Make sure it is covered, ideally in a close-fitting container or a zippered plastic bag. To prevent the squash from drying out, you can also wrap it securely in plastic wrap or place it in a resealable plastic bag. When securely wrapped, cut butternut squash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Do not store cut squash near ripening fruit, as the release of ethylene gas will shorten its storage life.

You can also freeze butternut squash to store it for longer. Simply spread the squash cubes out on a cookie sheet and flash freeze them. Once frozen, transfer the squash to a freezer-safe container or plastic bag. Frozen squash will keep indefinitely but is best used within six months to a year.

How to reheat leftover butternut squash

To reheat leftover butternut squash in an air fryer, you can follow a similar process to cooking it from scratch. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F/190°C.
• Place the leftover butternut squash in the air fryer basket, ensuring that the pieces are in a single layer with some space between them. Overlapping pieces are fine, but they may not crisp up as much.
• Reheat the squash for several minutes until it is warm and slightly crisp. The time will depend on the amount of squash and your air fryer, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
• Optionally, toss the reheated squash with some fresh herbs, such as parsley, to add a garnish.
• Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Reheating Butternut Squash:

• For best results, cut the leftover squash into even-sized pieces before reheating to ensure it cooks uniformly.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. This will help the squash crisp up and caramelize.
• The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of the squash pieces, so monitor the first batch closely to get a sense of the ideal timing.
• If you prefer your squash with a crispy texture, consider sautéing it in a pan with a small amount of oil instead of using the air fryer.
• You can also microwave leftover butternut squash, but it won't regain the same crispy texture.

Storing Leftover Butternut Squash:

• Allow cooked butternut squash to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Leftover butternut squash can be stored in the fridge for up to four days.
• For longer-term storage, you can freeze butternut squash. Spread the cooked pieces on a baking tray and flash-freeze them before transferring to a freezer bag or container. Frozen butternut squash will keep for 3-4 months.

What to serve with butternut squash

Butternut squash is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or incorporated into a main course. Here are some ideas for what to serve with butternut squash:

As a Side Dish

Butternut squash can be served as a simple healthy side dish to accompany a variety of meals. It pairs well with proteins such as roasted chicken, turkey breast, or crispy baked pork chops. For a vegetarian option, serve it with air fryer chicken breast and a veggie, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts, to make bowls. It can also be added to scrambled eggs for a healthy breakfast side.

In Salads

Butternut squash is an excellent addition to autumn-inspired salads that feature other fall produce. It can be tossed into fall-based salads, Buddha bowls, or a simple garden salad. For a more substantial salad, pair it with proteins such as steak or chicken, and other roasted vegetables. Some specific salad ideas include:

• Roasted Chickpea Fall Salad: Kale, crunchy pepitas, walnuts, pomegranate arils, dried cranberries, and chickpeas roasted with oil, turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon.
• Autumn Harvest Kale Salad: Slightly roasted kale and Brussels sprouts, delicata squash, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
• Quinoa Kale Salad with Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, quinoa, crunchy kale, dried cranberries, and a rich dressing.
• Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula with a red wine vinaigrette—pairs well with rich dishes.

In Soups and Stews

Butternut squash can be added to soups and stews, or pureed into a creamy butternut squash soup. It can be paired with a light salad or homemade bread as a side. Some specific soup and stew ideas include:

• Butternut squash soup with maple cream: Pureed butternut squash with bone broth, cinnamon, cayenne, maple syrup, and bourbon.
• Curried Butternut Squash Soup: A curried twist on the classic butternut squash soup.
• Lentil Soup with Butternut and Kale: A hearty soup featuring lentils and butternut squash.

In Pasta Dishes

Butternut squash can be added to pasta dishes such as pasta bakes, risottos, or even tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

In Other Main Courses

Butternut squash can be served as a side dish to complement a main course. It pairs well with proteins such as pork, chicken, beef, or seafood. Some specific main course ideas include:

• Blackened Cast Iron Pork Tenderloin
• Whole Roasted Turkey
• Pork Tenderloin au Poivre
• Honey Balsamic Chicken
• Apple Cider Pork Chops
• Crispy Roasted Pork Belly with Cranberry Mustard

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