Okay, my flavor-loving friend, buckle up because I’m about to share a recipe that will change your butternut squash game forever! We’re talking about Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash, and trust me, this isn’t your grandma’s bland squash.

I remember the first time I bit into perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash. I was at a fall festival, surrounded by the usual pumpkin spice madness, and then BAM! This vendor had little cubes of squash, all bronzed and glistening.

The sweetness was intensified, the edges were caramelized, and the texture? Oh, the texture was everything! That’s when I knew I needed to bring this magic to my own kitchen, Cuba Queen style, of course! Get ready because this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash is about to blow your mind.

INGREDIENTS You Need for This

This Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! We’re talking flavor bombs, not fussy ingredients. Get ready to experience butternut squash like never before! For a healthy air fryer butternut squash side dish, these are the best ingredients.

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 4 cups): Don’t even think about using pre-cut squash! The flavor is never the same. Trust me, a little elbow grease is worth it.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Good quality olive oil is key here. It helps the squash get that beautiful, crispy exterior we’re craving.
1 tablespoon maple syrup: The secret to epic Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash is using real maple syrup instead of the fake stuff. The depth of flavor is unmatched.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This adds a smoky depth that takes this squash to another level. Don’t skip it!
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory note that balances the sweetness perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little kick! I love the heat, but if you’re spice-averse, feel free to leave it out.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Season generously! This brings out all the natural sweetness of the squash.

You can find the best butternut squash at your local farmer’s market. I like to go early on Saturday mornings to get the freshest produce. Splurge on the maple syrup for this one – trust me, it makes a HUGE difference in the final Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash flavor!

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Here’s where most people mess up their Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash – but not you! I’m going to walk you through every step, so you get perfect results every time. Don’t stress – your Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash is going to be incredible! If you’re looking for other inspiration, check out Air Fryer Butternut Squash (+ roasted method) – Elavegan.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that crispy exterior. Make sure your air fryer is nice and hot before adding the squash.
In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, olive oil, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the squash is evenly coated. Make sure every piece is glistening with flavor.
Arrange the butternut squash cubes in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket! This is key to getting them crispy. If necessary, cook in batches. In my kitchen, this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash takes exactly two batches in my smaller air fryer.
Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the squash is tender and golden brown with crispy edges. Pro tip for Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash perfection: Check the squash after 15 minutes and add a few more minutes if needed. The exact cooking time will depend on your air fryer. Your Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash should look caramelized and smell heavenly!
Remove the squash from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. While your Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold!
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your chance to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a drizzle of extra maple syrup if you like it extra sweet. This is where your Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash transforms into pure magic!

PRESENTATION

Presentation is key, my friend! You want this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash to look as amazing as it tastes. Get ready to wow your guests! It will be like you have superpowers after making this easy air fryer butternut squash!

Serve this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash as a side dish with roasted chicken, pork, or even fish. It’s also fantastic as a topping for salads or grain bowls. Pair it with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or pepitas for added crunch. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash at Thanksgiving!

For an Instagram-worthy presentation, arrange the squash on a platter and drizzle with a little extra maple syrup and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Consider it with a dollop of whipped ricotta cheese. If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), toss them into a frittata or use them as a filling for tacos. This Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash absolutely slays at dinner parties!

This also works beautifully in so many other dishes. For a fantastic soup, try a variation on my butternut squash soup. Also, this recipe makes me think of my butternut squash gnocchi with sausage. Have you seen it?

For seasonal variations, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg during the fall months. In the summer, use a squeeze of lime juice for a bright, citrusy twist. I’ve also tested a version with a balsamic glaze that was out of this world!

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers! I’m here to help you make the perfect Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash every time. Let’s tackle those cooking challenges together!

Can I make this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash spicier? Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the squash before air frying.
What if I don’t have maple syrup? You can substitute honey or agave nectar, but the flavor won’t be quite the same. Real maple syrup adds a unique depth that’s hard to replicate.
How do I know when my Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash is perfectly done? The squash should be tender when pierced with a fork and have crispy, golden-brown edges. If it’s still too firm, continue air frying for a few more minutes.
Can I use frozen butternut squash? I don’t recommend it. Frozen squash tends to be watery and won’t get as crispy in the air fryer. Fresh squash is always best for this recipe.
What if my air fryer doesn’t reach 400°F? Use the highest temperature setting your air fryer offers. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
Can I add other vegetables to the air fryer? Yes! You can add other root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or parsnips to the air fryer along with the butternut squash. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces.
What are some good dipping sauces for this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash? A maple-mustard dipping sauce, a creamy avocado dip, or a spicy sriracha mayo would all be delicious.

This recipe makes me think of Roasted Butternut Squash in Air Fryer (Two Ways) – Our Nourishing… it is one of my favorites!

CONCLUSION

This Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, easy techniques, and recipes that make you feel like a culinary rockstar! You are capable of amazing things in the kitchen!

And don’t forget to tell me how the butternut squash cubes air fryer turned out when you make it! Here are a few Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash power tips:

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! This is the #1 mistake people make.
Use real maple syrup for the best flavor. It’s worth the splurge!
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. Get creative and make it your own!

Here are a few Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash variations I’ve created and loved:

Spicy Chipotle: Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy kick.
Cinnamon-Maple: Add a pinch of cinnamon and a little extra maple syrup for a sweet and cozy flavor.
Rosemary-Garlic: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary and a clove of minced garlic for a savory, herbaceous twist.

The spicy chipotle version always gets the biggest reactions at my dinner parties. It’s a total flavor bomb! I have confidence in you, my friend! Make this Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash your signature dish and watch the smiles light up the room. Also, this brown sugar roasted butternut squash is another winning recipe!

Now go forth and create some Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash memories! Share your results with me on social media – I can’t wait to see what you create!

This also works if you’re looking for an air fryer squash recipe.Check out Air Fryer Butternut Squash – Evergreen Kitchen.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for easy air fryer butternut squash! This roasted butternut squash air fryer recipe can be adjusted to your tastes.

Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Print Recipe

Enjoy perfectly tender and crispy butternut squash in just minutes with this easy air fryer recipe! A healthy and delicious side dish or snack, ready in under 30 minutes.

Author: Quinn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Air Fried
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure the squash is evenly coated.
Place the seasoned butternut squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and slightly crispy.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Serve as a side dish, snack, or as part of a fall-inspired bowl. Drizzle with maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.