Air Fryer Butternut Squash (Savory or Sweet)

Since butternut squash is already slightly sweet, I usually like to add a savory component to the dish for balance. For this recipe I chose to use sage combined with Aleppo pepper. The two together add a slightly smoky, earthy flavor to the air fried butternut squash.

This is one of my favorite easy side dishes to make. It’s full of flavor, can be served as a side with any protein you like, and it’s super easy to customize the flavor combinations depending on what your family likes.

If you love butternut squash like we do, you’ll also want to check out Mashed Butternut Squash and Roasted Butternut Squash Soup.

FAQs:

What flavors go well with butternut squash?Butternut squash lends itself equally well to sweet or savory seasonings. A little cinnamon and coconut sugar provide a flavor profile that is suitable for the holiday table. But, herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage along with salt and pepper to taste add an earthy depth of flavor to butternut squash.

Do you need to peel butternut squash before roasting?The peel of butternut squash is quite tough and bitter, so if you’re roasting cubes, it’s best to peel the squash before cutting into cubes. However, most grocery stores carry butternut squash already cubed in the refrigerated section of the produce department if you prefer to save some prep time.

Ingredients for Air Fried Butternut Squash:

• Butternut Squash: Butternut squash is high in vitamin A and has good amounts of vitamin C and Potassium.
• Avocado oil: Avocado oil has a very mild flavor and is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. It also has a higher smoke point (around 500ºF) making it a fantastic all around oil for a pantry staple.
• Sweet recipe: Coconut sugar, cinnamon, and salt create a balanced sweetness.
• Savory recipe: Aleppo pepper, garlic powder, sage, salt, and pepper create an earthy flavor that pairs well with the natural sweetness of the butternut squash.

How to Cook Air Fryer Butternut Squash:

1. Begin by preparing the butternut squash. First, peel the squash. To make this easier, cut off the top and bottom to provide a flat surface. Stand the squash upright, and use a vegetable peeler to remove the tough, outer skin.
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds. Next, slice into strips, then cut into three-quarter to one-inch cubes.
3. Place the squash cubes in a large bowl, and add the seasonings and avocado oil. Toss to combine all ingredients.
4. Pour the seasoned squashed cubes into the air fryer basket, and preheat the air fryer to 400ºF. Make sure the squash is in a single layer with a bit of space between the cubes.
5. Cook for 18-25 minutes depending on the size of your squash (smaller cubes will cook faster).

Preparation Tip:

• Need some tips for peeling and cutting butternut squash? Check out the video How to Prepare, Peel, and Cut Butternut Squash from Serious Eats. You can also find already cubed butternut squash in the refrigerated produce section at the market.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fried or Roasted Butternut Squash:

• Try a sweet and spicy version by adding a little chipotle powder to the sweet option.
• Serve the savory option over a whole grain or green salad. Try adding it to Farro Salad with Roasted Beets.
• Serve the sweet option over oatmeal or Greek yogurt for a delicious breakfast.
• Butternut Squash is a perfect side dish for any of your favorite proteins. Try serving it with: Buttermilk Brined Roasted Chicken, BBQ Bacon Meatloaf, Smoked Pork Loin, or Oven Baked Pork Chops.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Coconut sugar: Brown sugar or turbinado sugar will also work.
• Avocado oil: Use any oil with a high smoke point such as: canola, sunflower, or light olive oil.
• Aleppo pepper: Smoked paprika has a similar smoky flavor without the slight kick of the Aleppo pepper.
• Whole30 friendly: Omit the sugar from the sweet version of this recipe. The savory version is already Whole30 friendly.

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