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Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Air Fryer Butternut Squash is an incredibly easy and flavorful way to cook this fall favorite. The air fryer creates a perfectly crispy, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside soft, tender, and creamy. Roasting butternut squash in the air fryer is quicker than using the oven and requires minimal prep, making it a convenient and healthy side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving it with a simple weeknight dinner or using it as part of a more elaborate spread, this method brings out the natural sweetness of the squash while adding a deliciously crispy texture. Plus, it’s a fantastic choice for those following a low-carb, keto, or vegan diet!

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium butternut squash
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1/4 tsp paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Butternut Squash:
    • Begin by peeling the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler. Cut off the top and bottom ends, then slice the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds from the center with a spoon.
    • Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes. You can also slice it into half-moons or wedges if you prefer larger pieces, but cubes tend to cook more evenly and quickly.
  2. Season the Squash:
    • Place the cubed squash in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat the pieces evenly. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and your optional seasonings like cinnamon, paprika, or cayenne pepper. Toss again until all the pieces are coated with the seasoning mixture.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the squash cooks evenly and gets a crispy exterior.
  4. Air Fry the Squash:
    • Place the seasoned butternut squash cubes in the air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer to allow the hot air to circulate properly for even cooking. You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer is small.
    • Air fry the squash at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. Check the tenderness of the squash with a fork; the cubes should be fork-tender and have a slight crispiness on the outside.
  5. Serve:
    • Once the squash is cooked, remove it from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if desired, and serve immediately. It’s a perfect side dish for roasted meats, grains, or salads.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Butternut Squash:

Air Fryer Butternut Squash is one of the simplest and quickest ways to make this delicious and nutritious vegetable. The air fryer cooks the squash evenly, providing the perfect balance of crispy edges and tender inside, without the need for a ton of oil. The result is a lighter, healthier side dish that’s full of flavor. By using the air fryer, you don’t have to worry about the long cooking times or multiple pans that are often involved in traditional roasting methods.

One of the major benefits of cooking butternut squash in the air fryer is its speed. Typically, roasting squash in the oven can take upwards of 40-50 minutes, but the air fryer does the job in half the time. In as little as 15 minutes, you can have golden, perfectly cooked butternut squash ready to serve. The air fryer also ensures that the squash maintains its moisture while developing a beautifully crispy, caramelized surface, enhancing its natural sweetness.

Additionally, air fryer butternut squash is highly customizable. You can make it as sweet or savory as you like. For a sweet version, try adding maple syrup, brown sugar, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a more fall-inspired flavor. For a savory dish, you can experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a bit of parmesan cheese. The air fryer’s versatility allows you to tailor the recipe to your tastes, whether you want a comforting, sweet side dish or a savory option to complement a hearty main.

Another advantage of air frying butternut squash is the healthy factor. Traditional roasting often requires more oil or butter to achieve that crispy texture, but the air fryer allows you to achieve similar results with minimal oil. You can control how much oil you use, making this a lower-calorie, nutritious option that fits well into low-carb, keto, or vegan diets. Butternut squash is naturally rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium, so it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (about 1 cup of roasted butternut squash cubes):

  • Calories: 90 kcal
  • Fat: 6g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
    • Fiber: 4g
    • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 150% of the daily value
  • Vitamin C: 25% of the daily value
  • Potassium: 15% of the daily value