Air Fryer Butternut Squash: Perfect Timing For Delicious Results

Butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups and even desserts. Cooking butternut squash in an air fryer is a convenient and quick way to prepare this tasty vegetable, with a cooking time of around 15 to 20 minutes. This method gives the squash a tender, golden finish with a slightly crispy edge, and it can be seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs to enhance its natural sweetness.

Cooking Butternut Squash in an Air Fryer

How to cut butternut squash for the air fryer

To cut butternut squash for the air fryer, start by using a sharp chef's knife to chop off the top and bottom of the squash. This creates a flat surface so that the squash can stand upright. Next, use a vegetable peeler to peel the squash. With the squash standing upright, cut it in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds with a spoon. You can now chop the squash into 1-inch half-moon slices, before dicing them into 1-inch cubes.

For even cooking, it is important that the cubes are roughly the same size. Choosing a squash that is fairly even in shape and width will make it easier to chop into evenly-sized pieces. If you are short on time, you can buy pre-chopped butternut squash, although you may need to adjust the cooking time based on their size.

Once chopped, toss the cubes with oil and seasoning in a bowl to evenly coat them. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt and pepper, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, or brown sugar. Transfer the seasoned squash to the air fryer basket in a single layer with space in between each piece. While you can cook the squash with pieces overlapping, they won't caramelize or crisp up as much.

Seasoning and spices for butternut squash

When it comes to seasoning and spices for butternut squash, there are a variety of options to choose from, depending on your taste preferences. Here are some ideas to elevate your air-fried butternut squash:

Savory Spices

If you prefer a savory flavor profile, consider using spices like onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. These spices enhance the natural sweetness and nutty flavor of butternut squash. You can also add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors. Some recipes suggest sprinkling on dried parsley, which can be added with the other spices or as a garnish before serving.

Sweet Spices

For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice can be a delightful addition to butternut squash. A small amount of brown sugar can also elevate the flavors, but it's optional. If you want to avoid sugar, you can swap it with maple syrup to add a hint of sweetness to your squash.

Herbs

Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage can be used to season butternut squash. These herbs provide an aromatic and flavorful profile to the dish. You can add them before roasting or sprinkle them on top as a garnish before serving.

Oils

While not exactly a seasoning or spice, choosing the right oil is crucial for air-fried butternut squash. Extra-virgin olive oil is a popular choice for its flavor and ability to crisp up the squash. However, you can also experiment with other oils like avocado oil or cooking sprays, keeping in mind that some sprays may damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer.

Customization

Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to match your taste preferences. If you enjoy spicy food, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of black pepper. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the cayenne altogether. Play around with different combinations to find your perfect blend!

Reheating and storing butternut squash

There are several ways to reheat butternut squash that has been cooked in an air fryer. You can reheat it in the air fryer for several minutes at 375F/190C until warm and slightly crisp. Alternatively, you can sauté it with a little oil or microwave it, though it won't turn out crispy.

When storing raw butternut squash, it is best to keep it in a cool, dry, dark place, such as a pantry, cellar, basement, or cabinet. It should be stored whole and unpeeled, and it will last for about two to three months.

Once cut, butternut squash should be stored in the refrigerator. It will last for three to four days in an airtight container. You can also store the chopped squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days before cooking it.

Cooked butternut squash can be stored in an airtight container or bag in the refrigerator for four to five days. It can also be frozen for three to six months. To freeze, spread the butternut pieces on a baking tray, then store them in a Ziplock bag for three to four months.

How to get crispy butternut squash in the air fryer

Air-fried butternut squash is a delicious and convenient way to cook this winter vegetable. It is a great side dish and can be served with a variety of meals, from roast chicken to salads.

Preparation

Firstly, choose a butternut squash that is fairly even in shape/width to make it easier to chop into evenly sized pieces. Chop off the top and bottom of the squash using a sharp chef's knife, then use a vegetable peeler to peel it. Stand the squash upright and cut it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and discard them.

Cooking

Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes into a bowl and toss with oil and seasonings to coat them evenly. Transfer the seasoned squash to the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between each piece. This will help the squash to caramelize and crisp up. While you can cook it with the pieces overlapping, the browning will not be as even.

Preheat the air fryer to 380F/193C. Place the basket inside and cook for about 18 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes until golden and fork-tender.

Seasoning

You can season the butternut squash with a variety of spices, such as onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and cinnamon. For a touch of sweetness, you can add brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey.

Storage

Allow the butternut squash to cool, then store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, place the squash back in the air fryer for several minutes at 375F/190C until warm and slightly crisp.

Enjoy your crispy, golden, and delicious butternut squash!

What to serve with butternut squash

Air-fried butternut squash is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or incorporated into a salad. It can be paired with a variety of proteins and sides to create a well-rounded and delicious meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with air-fried butternut squash:

Proteins:

• Roasted chicken
• Oven-fried chicken
• Turkey breast
• Crispy baked pork chops
• Chicken breast
• Bacon
• Baked sage chicken meatballs

Salads:

• Kale salad with apples, cranberries, and pecans
• Harvest salad with greens and squash
• Butternut squash and quinoa salad
• Roasted butternut squash salad
• Fennel and pear salad
• Waldorf salad
• Lentil salad with toasted cumin, garlic, lemon, and almonds
• Double kale gratin with two kinds of kale, three kinds of cheese, cream, and crunchy breadcrumbs

Sides:

• Smashed potatoes
• Green beans sautéed in garlic butter with dried cranberries and toasted almonds
• Mushroom risotto
• White cabbage gratin with charred cabbage, bacon, Gruyere, and heavy cream
• Miso-sesame glazed Brussels sprouts with crispy panko-Parmesan
• Wild rice pilaf
• Gravy
• Swiss chard
• Creamy orzo and spinach

Other:

• Scrambled eggs
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Quinoa
• Arugula
• Walnuts
• Pomegranate
• Soup
• Biscuits

Frequently asked questions