Hey there, fellow food lovers! Nyla here, and I’m SO thrilled to share one of my absolute favorite recipes with you: Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash! This recipe isn’t just about cooking; it’s about turning ordinary meals into something truly special, a flavor explosion that makes your taste buds sing.
It all started during one of my late-night kitchen adventures. I was craving something savory but with a hint of sweetness. I experimented and the result? This Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash became a happy accident that I now make all the time!
The flavors? Unbelievable. The texture? Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. And the best part? It’s SO easy to make, even on the busiest weeknights. I’m practically bursting with excitement to share this with you. So, grab your apron, and let’s get ready for some delicious magic!
INGREDIENTS You Need
This Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! You can grab everything during your normal shopping trip. Get ready to turn simple ingredients into something incredible.
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch pieces.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil. No worries if you only have avocado oil, I use it all the time in my Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup. This adds a touch of sweetness that is absolute perfection.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. This is where the Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash gets its amazing smoky taste!
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!). I love adding extra cayenne to my Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash for that extra kick!
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional, but they look so pretty!).
Here’s my Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash secret that takes it from good to incredible: a tiny pinch of nutmeg. It brings out the natural sweetness of the squash. For ingredient prep shortcuts, you can buy pre-cut butternut squash to save time. Make sure you store your butternut squash in a cool, dark place for maximum freshness.
Let’s Make Some!
Alright, let’s dive into making this amazing Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash! I’m going to walk you through each step like we’re cooking together in my kitchen. Get ready for some delicious magic!
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect crispy texture on your air fryer squash.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, olive oil, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the squash is evenly coated with the spices. This is where the flavor party starts.
- Place the seasoned butternut squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will prevent the squash from getting crispy. You may need to cook in batches. This is my favorite part of making Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash – watch the magic happen!
- Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and golden brown with crispy edges. In my kitchen, this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash usually takes 17 minutes, but air fryers can vary, so keep an eye on it.
- Check for doneness by piercing a piece of squash with a fork. It should be easily pierced and feel tender. This is where the magic starts happening!
- Once the squash is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving dish. Your Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash should smell absolutely incredible right now.
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs (optional). Don’t worry if your Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash looks a little uneven; it will still taste amazing!
If you’re using frozen butternut squash, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors. I discovered this happy accident when I ran out of thyme! While your Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash is doing its thing, get ready for some amazing aromas!
How to Serve Up This!
This Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash is incredibly versatile. I love to enjoy it in so many different ways! Get ready for some bold flavor pairings and presentation ideas that will wow your guests.
People literally do happy dances when this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash hits the table with roasted chicken and a side of quinoa. The sweetness of the squash complements the savory chicken perfectly. Serve it as a side dish with grilled salmon for a healthy and delicious meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of elegance.
For a vegetarian option, toss the Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash with some toasted pecans and crumbled goat cheese. The creamy goat cheese and crunchy pecans create a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. This Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash is perfect for those weeknight dinners that need to be special!
I love to serve this at Thanksgiving or any fall gathering. It adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor to the table. You can also transform leftovers into a delicious butternut squash soup. Just blend it with some vegetable broth and a touch of cream. For a fusion twist, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes and a squeeze of lime juice.
I’ve even used this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash as a pizza topping with some caramelized onions and gorgonzola cheese. It’s an unexpected but amazing combination! Whenever I serve this, people always ask for the recipe. They love how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes.
This Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash reminds me of another bold flavor favorite, my Jalapeno Popper Chicken Wraps 3. If you’re loving this comfort food twist, you’ll go crazy for that recipe too!
FAQs:
Got questions about making Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! I’ve answered some common concerns to help you succeed with this recipe.
1. Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver. Just make sure the pieces are roughly the same size so they cook evenly. I’ve done this many times, especially on busy weeknights.
2. Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash?
Definitely! This recipe is super simple and straightforward. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll be golden. Trust me, even if you’re new to cooking, you can nail this!
3. What if I don’t have maple syrup?
No problem! You can substitute honey or brown sugar. The maple syrup adds a unique flavor, but honey and brown sugar will work just fine. I’ve tried both, and they’re both delicious.
4. How can I prep this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash for busy weeknights?
You can peel and cube the butternut squash ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Then, when you’re ready to cook, just toss it with the spices and pop it in the air fryer. I often do this on Sundays to save time during the week.
5. What if I mess up my Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!)
Hey, we all make mistakes! Even if it’s slightly overcooked or undercooked, it’ll still be delicious. The flavors are so good that it’s hard to go wrong. My taste testing results have shown that slight variations still end up being yummy.
6. Can I add other vegetables to the air fryer along with the butternut squash?
Yes! Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and bell peppers are great additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. My family loves it when I add Brussels sprouts – they get so crispy!
7. How do I store leftover Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp it up again. I often use leftovers in salads or grain bowls.
8. What other spices can I use?
Get creative! Cinnamon, ginger, and cumin are all great additions. I encourage you to experiment and find your favorite flavor combinations. I even tried a version with curry powder, and it was surprisingly good!
For more weeknight winners that don’t sacrifice on taste, check out my Best Chili Recipe. I promise, it’ll become a new family favorite.
CONCLUSION:
This Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash brings me so much joy because it’s a perfect blend of comfort and flavor. It’s easy to make, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. I’m excited for you to try it and experience the delicious magic for yourself!
My Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Flavor Secrets:
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This is key to getting that perfect crispy texture.
- Use high-quality spices. They make a huge difference in the overall flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg. It enhances the natural sweetness of the butternut squash.
Here are a few delicious Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash variations I’ve tested:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes and a squeeze of lime juice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner with a kick!
- Savory: Toss with toasted pecans and crumbled goat cheese. Ideal for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering.
- Sweet: Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with fresh thyme. Great for a fancy brunch!
Trust your taste buds and get creative with this recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own personal touch. I’m so excited for you to embark on this cooking adventure and discover your own favorite Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash variations! Let me know what you think and happy cooking! Enjoy your Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash!
If you are interested in another butternut squash recipe then check out Roasted Butternut Squash in Air Fryer (Two Ways) – Our Nourishing …. You can also look at Air Fryer Butternut Squash – Skinnytaste. Or try Air Fryer Butternut Squash – Evergreen Kitchen if you’re still feeling unsure!
I love making homemade bechamel sauce and this recipe has the same cozy and loving vibes as my Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash! You’ll love that recipe too. Happy cooking!
Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Enjoy perfectly tender and crispy butternut squash with this easy air fryer recipe. This quick and healthy side dish is ready in under 30 minutes and makes a delicious addition to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fried
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
- Place the squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and golden brown.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For a sweeter flavor, drizzle with a touch of maple syrup or honey after cooking.