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Crispy Air-Fryer Butternut Squash Made Easy

Crispy Air-Fryer Butternut Squash

Tender, golden butternut squash cubes are seasoned simply and air-fried until their edges are browned and crisp. This easy four-serving side dish is ready in about 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 squash Medium butternut squash, about 2 pounds
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Olive oil
Seasonings
  • 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
Optional Seasonings
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika or sweet paprika

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Peel the butternut squash, cut it in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds. Cut the squash into uniform 3/4-inch cubes so the pieces cook at the same rate.
  2. Pat the squash cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Toss them with the olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder and paprika.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes if your model requires preheating. Arrange the seasoned squash in a single layer without tightly packing the basket.
  4. Air-fry for 18–22 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the cubes after about 10 minutes. Continue cooking until the squash is fork-tender and the edges are browned and crisp.
  5. Serve the squash hot as a side dish or use it in salads, bowls, soups, or seasonal meal plates. If the basket is crowded, cook in batches for better browning.

Notes

Dry the squash well before adding oil, and avoid overcrowding the basket. Very small cubes may finish in 15–18 minutes, while larger pieces may need 22–25 minutes. For a sweet version, use 1 tablespoon maple syrup and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon instead of the garlic and paprika, adding the maple syrup near the end of cooking.