Ah, butternut squash—it’s like autumn in a gourd, isn’t it? This easy air fryer recipe will make you fall in love with its sweet, nutty charm all over again. And let’s be honest, who knew an air fryer could make something so simple feel like a culinary triumph?
Steps
- Place the diced butternut squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer and spray with olive oil. Set the air fryer to 340°F and cook for 20 to 23 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- While the squash is cooking, mix together onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
- Once the squash is fork-tender, drizzle it with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the squash and gently mix to ensure an even coating.
- Return the squash to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the spices are well combined and the squash is slightly browned. Serve hot.
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced (approximately 4 cups)
- Olive oil spray
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 452 kcal | Carbohydrates: 86 g | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 14 g | Saturated Fat: 2 g | Sodium: 594 mg | Fiber: 14 g | Sugar: 16 g
FAQ
- Do I need to peel butternut squash before cooking it in an air fryer?
- Yes, it is recommended to peel the butternut squash if you are cutting it into cubes. Using a vegetable peeler makes this task easier. Alternatively, you can use pre-cut butternut squash to save time.
- How long should I cook butternut squash in an air fryer?
- The cooking time for butternut squash in an air fryer is approximately 20 to 23 minutes at 340°F. Make sure to shake the basket a few times during cooking for even browning. If your air fryer basket is smaller, you might need to adjust the time.
- What are some serving suggestions for air fryer butternut squash?
- Air fryer butternut squash can be enjoyed in various ways. You can add it to scrambled eggs for a breakfast side, pair it with roasted chicken or pork chops for a main dish, or include it in meal prep bowls with chicken and vegetables. It also works well as a topping for a harvest salad.
- Can I use different seasonings for air fryer butternut squash?
- Absolutely! While the recipe suggests a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt, you can experiment with other spices. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, or swapping brown sugar for maple syrup.
- Is butternut squash suitable for a vegan and gluten-free diet?
- Yes, air fryer butternut squash is a healthy, high-fiber side dish that is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Tips
- To save time, consider purchasing pre-cut butternut squash, but be aware that it might require a slightly longer cooking time due to larger pieces.
- Ensure even cooking and browning by shaking the air fryer basket a few times throughout the cooking process.
- For a sweet variation, replace brown sugar with maple syrup and add cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a milder taste, omit the cayenne pepper from the spice mix to avoid any spiciness.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Olive Oil Spray Bottle (if not already owned)
