Butternut squash is a wonderfully sweet and nutty vegetable that’s perfect for cozy meals any time of the year. If you’ve been wondering how to cook butternut squash in an air fryer, you’re in for a treat! The air fryer is a game-changer for this veggie, delivering tender insides with crispy, caramelized edges in a fraction of the time it takes in the oven. Let’s dive into the easy steps and tips for making perfect air fryer butternut squash every time.
Why Cook Butternut Squash in an Air Fryer?
– Speed: Air frying cooks butternut squash much faster than traditional roasting-usually around 15 to 25 minutes.
– Texture: You get a delightful contrast of tender, melt-in-your-mouth squash with crispy, golden edges.
– Convenience: Minimal prep and hands-off cooking make it ideal for busy weeknights.
– Versatility: It works as a side dish, salad topping, or even added to grain bowls and soups.
What You’ll Need
– Butternut squash (peeled and cut into roughly 1-inch cubes)
– Olive oil or avocado oil
– Salt and pepper
– Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne, or your favorite spice blend
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Butternut Squash in an Air Fryer
1. Prep Your Squash
Start by peeling the butternut squash, cutting it in half, and scooping out the seeds. Then chop it into evenly sized 1-inch cubes. This uniform size helps the squash cook evenly and get those perfect crispy edges.
2. Season and Oil
Place the cubes in a large bowl and toss them with olive oil until lightly coated. Add salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Some delicious combinations include garlic powder and paprika for a savory flavor or cinnamon and a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating your air fryer to around 375°F (190°C) to 400°F (200°C) ensures the squash starts cooking immediately and crisps up nicely.
4. Arrange in the Basket
Place the seasoned squash cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate and crisp the pieces evenly. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches.
5. Cook and Shake
Air fry the squash for about 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your air fryer and the size of the cubes. Shake or toss the basket every 5 to 7 minutes to promote even browning and prevent sticking.
6. Check for Doneness
The squash is done when it’s fork-tender and has golden, caramelized edges. If it needs more time, cook in 1- to 2-minute increments until perfect.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your air-fried butternut squash hot as a side dish or toss it into salads, grain bowls, or soups. You can drizzle extra honey or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor.
Flavor Ideas to Try
– Savory Spice Mix: Garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.
– Sweet and Spicy: Cinnamon, brown sugar, a drizzle of honey, and a dash of nutmeg.
– Herbaceous: Toss with rosemary, thyme, and garlic before air frying.
– Asian-Inspired: Use Chinese five-spice powder for a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the squash.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Butternut Squash
– Use pre-cut squash from the store if you want to save prep time.
– Cut evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.
– Don’t overcrowd the basket; air needs to circulate for crispiness.
– Shake the basket regularly to brown all sides evenly.
– Adjust cooking time based on the size of your cubes and your air fryer model.
– Preheat your air fryer for better texture and faster cooking.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair with roasted chicken or pork for a comforting meal.
– Toss into a kale or spinach salad for added warmth and texture.
– Add to grain bowls with quinoa, wild rice, or farro.
– Use as a topping for pizzas or flatbreads.
– Blend into soups for a creamy, roasted flavor.
Cooking butternut squash in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you prefer it savory, sweet, or spiced, the air fryer makes it effortless to get that perfect tender-crisp texture every time.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked butternut squash!