Emilie Meyer
Cooking butternut squash in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare this winter vegetable. It can be cut into cubes or strips, tossed in oil and seasoning, and cooked in the air fryer for a delicious side dish or addition to salads, grain bowls, and more. The air fryer's hot air circulation cooks the squash faster than an oven, making it a convenient and time-saving option. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, air-fried butternut squash is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cookware | Air Fryer |
| Food | Butternut Squash |
| Seasoning | Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Sweet Paprika, Cayenne Pepper, Salt, Cinnamon, Brown Sugar, Black Pepper, Olive Oil, Avocado Oil, Vegetable Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Coconut Sugar, Honey, Maple Syrup |
| Add-ins | Cranberries, Feta, Pecans |
| Cook Time | 15-35 minutes |
| Temperature | 340-400°F |
| Calories | 113-125 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 21.5-24 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 3.5-4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5-1 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3-4 g |
| Sodium | 8-148.5 mg |
| Potassium | 660 mg |
| Fiber | 3.5-4 g |
| Sugar | 2-4 g |
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What You'll Learn
How to cut butternut squash for the air fryer
To cut butternut squash for the air fryer, you will first need to peel it. You can use a vegetable peeler or a sharp chef's knife to do this. Next, cut off the ends of the squash and slice it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and either discard them or save them for roasting later.
At this point, you have a few options for how to cut the squash. You can cut it into 1-inch cubes or half-moon slices, or you can cut it into strips to make butternut squash fries. If you are cutting it into cubes, try to make them approximately 1.5 cm in size so that they cook evenly.
You can also buy pre-cut butternut squash to save time, but you may need to adjust the cooking time or cut the pieces down further, as store-bought pre-cut squash is sometimes cut into large chunks.
Once your squash is cut, you can place it directly into the air fryer basket and coat it with olive oil or avocado oil and your desired seasonings. You can also place the squash in a large mixing bowl, add the oil and seasonings, and then stir or mix before pouring it into the air fryer basket. Make sure to spread the squash out in a single layer in the basket, with a little space between each piece if possible, to ensure even cooking.
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How to season butternut squash for the air fryer
There are several ways to season butternut squash before cooking it in an air fryer. One option is to toss the squash cubes in a bowl with olive oil and a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and brown sugar. You can also add cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to this mixture. If you don't like spicy food, you can skip the cayenne pepper.
Another option is to season the squash with salt and pepper only. You can also add olive oil to this mixture. Alternatively, you can use avocado oil or another cooking oil of your choice.
You can also try drizzling the squash with maple syrup and adding spices such as cranberries, feta, and pecans. If you like your food a little spicy, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
If you're looking for a sweet option, you can use coconut sugar, brown sugar, or honey in place of maple syrup. You can also try a savoury mix of spices, or any seasoning you like.
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The best oil to use for air fryer butternut squash
When cooking butternut squash in an air fryer, the best oils to use are those with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is a good option, as is avocado oil, which has a slightly higher smoke point. Grapeseed oil spray is another option with a high smoke point.
You can also use melted ghee, melted butter, or macadamia oil, though these are less common choices.
It is best to avoid cooking sprays like PAM, as these can damage the non-stick coating in your air fryer basket.
When using olive oil, it is recommended to spray or drizzle the oil over the butternut squash, ensuring an even coat. You can also toss the squash in a bowl with the oil and seasonings before adding it to the air fryer basket.
The amount of oil used can vary depending on your preference, but a light coat or a few tablespoons are usually enough to give the squash some moisture and flavour.
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How long to cook butternut squash in the air fryer
The cooking time for butternut squash in an air fryer depends on the size and ripeness of the squash, as well as the temperature setting and the specific air fryer being used. It is recommended to keep a close eye on the squash while it cooks, as the timing can vary.
For cubed butternut squash, the cooking time is typically between 15 and 20 minutes at 340°F to 400°F. It is important to shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even browning and cooking. If the squash is cut into larger pieces, the cooking time may need to be increased.
For halved butternut squash, the cooking time is typically 30 minutes at 356°F. The squash is placed in the air fryer basket skin-side down and seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Some recipes suggest cooking cubed butternut squash at a higher temperature of 380°F to 390°F for 18 to 20 minutes, again shaking the basket periodically to ensure even cooking.
It is also possible to cook frozen butternut squash in an air fryer, but the cooking time will need to be increased, and the squash should not be overcrowded in the basket to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
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What to serve with air fryer butternut squash
Air fryer butternut squash is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or incorporated into a variety of recipes. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:
As a Side Dish
Air fryer butternut squash makes a delicious side dish and pairs well with roasted meats such as chicken, turkey breast, or crispy baked pork chops. It can also be served alongside other roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. For a healthier option, add it to a salad with greens, quinoa, or kale.
In Breakfast Dishes
Butternut squash is a tasty addition to scrambled eggs, providing a nutritious start to your day.
In Salads
Butternut squash can be cubed and added to a variety of salads, such as a harvest salad or a quinoa salad with fall flavors like cranberries and almonds.
In Soups and Stews
The roasted squash can be scooped out and blended with stock or broth to make a creamy butternut squash soup. You can also add milk, cream, or dairy-free milk to adjust the consistency and flavor.
In Curries and Pasta Bakes
Butternut squash has a sweet and savory flavor that complements spicy dishes, making it a great addition to curries and pasta bakes.
In Enchiladas
For a vegetarian option, butternut squash can be used in enchiladas, paired with black beans, and seasoned with spices like cumin or chili powder.
With Spices and Seasonings
When serving butternut squash as a side, you can enhance its flavor with various spices and seasonings. A mix of onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt is a great combination. A small amount of brown sugar or maple syrup can also elevate the flavors. Alternatively, a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice can add a warm, sweet touch.
Remember, when cooking butternut squash in an air fryer, it's important to cut the squash into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. You can also peel the squash or leave the skin on, depending on your preference. Enjoy experimenting with different serving suggestions and creating delicious meals with air fryer butternut squash!
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Frequently asked questions
Cooking time depends on the size and ripeness of your squash. It usually takes 15-20 minutes to cook butternut squash in an air fryer.
You can cut the butternut squash in cubes or strips. First, use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the squash. Then, use a vegetable peeler to peel it. With it standing upright, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, chop it into half-moon slices, and then dice them.
The temperature depends on the size of your squash and your air fryer. It is recommended to cook at 340-400°F.
