Oh my goodness, you’re going to love this! Cooking butternut squash in the air fryer is an absolute game-changer. It’s so quick and easy, plus you get that delicious caramelization without all the fuss of traditional roasting. This *airfryer butternut squash* recipe is not just healthy; it’s bursting with flavor! I especially enjoy making this dish during the fall when squash is in season, and it fills the kitchen with the most incredible aroma. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it for every holiday gathering or cozy dinner night—it’s that good!
Ingredients List
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
How to Prepare Airfryer Butternut Squash
Preparing airfryer butternut squash is super simple and oh-so-satisfying! Let’s dive right in, shall we? First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because a hot air fryer will give your squash that lovely caramelization. While that’s heating up, grab a large bowl and toss in your cubed butternut squash. Add the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Oh, the smell of those spices is just divine! Mix it all together until every piece of squash is beautifully coated.
Now, carefully place the seasoned squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer. This ensures even cooking, so don’t overcrowd it—trust me, your squash will thank you! Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This little shake is key to getting that perfect tenderness. When the timer goes off, poke a piece with a fork; it should be tender and slightly golden. If it needs a bit more time, pop it back in for a few minutes. And there you have it—a deliciously roasted butternut squash that’s ready to shine on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Toss until the squash is evenly coated with the mixture.
- Place the squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer for even cooking.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, giving the basket a shake halfway through.
- Check for tenderness; if needed, cook a few minutes longer.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve hot, savoring all the flavors!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this delicious *airfryer butternut squash* is about 1 cup and packs in approximately 80 calories, 4g of fat, 2g of protein, and 12g of carbohydrates. It’s a healthy side dish option that’s low in calories and cholesterol-free, making it perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. Remember, these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use.
Tips for Success
To get the best out of your *airfryer butternut squash*, here are a few handy tips! First, make sure your squash cubes are about the same size—this helps them cook evenly. If you cut them smaller, you might need to reduce the cooking time slightly. Also, don’t skip the shake halfway through; it really helps with even browning. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the spices! Curry powder or Italian seasoning can give a fun twist. And remember, if you have any leftovers, they store beautifully in an airtight container for a couple of days. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ Section
Can I make this butternut squash recipe without an air fryer? Absolutely! You can roast it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Just toss it on a baking sheet instead!
Is this airfryer butternut squash a healthy side dish? Yes! It’s low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your meals.
Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time since frozen squash can release moisture. Just keep an eye on it!
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet? Definitely! This *airfryer butternut squash* is completely vegan and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super quick preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Healthy and nutritious, perfect for any diet.
- Loaded with flavor from simple seasonings.
- Versatile—serve as a side dish or toss into salads.
- A delightful way to enjoy seasonal squash, especially in fall.
- Minimal cleanup since it’s all done in the air fryer!
Serving Suggestions
Oh, the possibilities with this *airfryer butternut squash*! It makes a fantastic side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon. You can also toss it in a hearty salad with spinach, cranberries, and walnuts for a delightful crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix it into a grain bowl with quinoa and your favorite veggies. And don’t forget, a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese on top just takes it to the next level! Enjoy every bite!
Print
Airfryer Butternut Squash: 7 Flavorful Secrets Unveiled
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple recipe for airfryer butternut squash that is delicious and healthy.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Toss until the squash is evenly coated.
- Place the squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Check for tenderness and cook longer if needed.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on the size of the squash cubes.
- Serve as a side dish or add to salads.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: airfryer butternut squash, healthy side dish, vegan recipe