Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe

Learn how to make perfectly roasted butternut squash in your air fryer! This quick and easy recipe delivers tender, caramelized squash with crispy edges in just 15 minutes. Perfect healthy side dish for any meal.

Prep

10 mins

Cook

15 mins

Serve

Kcal

125

Carbs: 18g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 7g

125

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium butternut squash (about 1kg), peeled and cubed</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons olive oil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 teaspoon black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 teaspoon garlic powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 teaspoon paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)</li></ul>

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Start by preheating your air fryer to 200°C for about 3 minutes. While it's heating up, carefully peel your butternut squash using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, working from top to bottom in long strokes. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out all the seeds and stringy bits with a spoon, then cut into uniform 2.5cm cubes - keeping them similar in size ensures even cooking throughout.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Place your cubed butternut squash into a large mixing bowl and drizzle over the olive oil. Using your hands or a large spoon, toss the cubes thoroughly for about 30 seconds, making sure every piece is well-coated with oil - this is crucial for achieving those lovely caramelized edges we're after.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the oiled squash cubes. Add the chopped fresh sage leaves (they'll become wonderfully crispy during cooking) and toss everything together for another 30 seconds until all the seasonings are evenly distributed and clinging to the squash pieces.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Arrange the seasoned squash cubes in your air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they're not overcrowded - you want air to circulate freely around each piece. If your air fryer is smaller, cook in two batches rather than cramming everything in.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Cook at 200°C for 8 minutes, then carefully pull out the basket and give the squash a good shake or use tongs to flip the pieces over - this ensures even browning on all sides. Return to the air fryer for another 5-7 minutes until the edges are golden brown and caramelized, and a fork easily pierces the flesh.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>If you're using maple syrup for extra sweetness, drizzle it over the cooked squash during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving - the squash will be extremely hot and the flavors will settle beautifully during this brief resting period.</li></ol>

FAQ for

Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe

How long does butternut squash take to cook in an air fryer?

Butternut squash takes 13-15 minutes total at 400°F (200°C) in an air fryer. Cook for 8 minutes, shake or flip, then continue for 5-7 minutes until edges are golden brown and fork-tender.

Do I need to peel butternut squash before air frying?

Yes, you should peel butternut squash before air frying. The skin becomes tough and chewy when cooked. Use a sharp knife or vegetable peeler to remove all skin before cutting into cubes.

What temperature should I use for air fryer butternut squash?

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for butternut squash. This high temperature creates the perfect caramelized edges while keeping the inside tender. Preheat for 3 minutes before adding the squash.

Can you overcook butternut squash in an air fryer?

Yes, butternut squash can become mushy if overcooked in an air fryer. Check for doneness at 13 minutes - it should be fork-tender with golden edges. Avoid cooking beyond 15 minutes to prevent mushiness.

Should butternut squash be in a single layer in the air fryer?

Yes, arrange butternut squash in a single layer for even cooking. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation and leads to uneven browning. Cook in batches if necessary for best results.

The calorie count is an approximation and can vary based on exact measurements and specific ingredients used. Always consult nutritional information if strict adherence to calorie counts is required. This recipe is inspired by the flavours of this restaurant's dishes and has been independently developed for home cooking. It is not an exact match to the proprietary recipe used by the restaurant. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the restaurant.


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September 5, 2025

Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe

Learn how to make perfectly roasted butternut squash in your air fryer! This quick and easy recipe delivers tender, caramelized squash with crispy edges in just 15 minutes. Perfect healthy side dish for any meal.

Prep

Cook

Serve

Kcal

Carbs: 18g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Directions

How long does butternut squash take to cook in an air fryer?

Do I need to peel butternut squash before air frying?

What temperature should I use for air fryer butternut squash?

Can you overcook butternut squash in an air fryer?

Should butternut squash be in a single layer in the air fryer?