Air Fryer Butternut Squash – The Big Man’s World ®

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My air fryer butternut squash turns out buttery, crisp-edged, and full of flavor in about 20 minutes. It’s the ultimate easy side dish. 

Once the leaves change, I’m dying to make more squash recipes. Butternut squash is my favorite because it’s naturally sweet and can be used in a variety of cooking methods. 

Lately, we’ve been air frying it, and it’s quickly become my go-to. I’ve tested it in a few different air fryers (I own four, seriously), and the secret is cutting the squash into evenly sized cubes so that the hot air circulates properly. This method reduces surface moisture while caramelizing the natural sugars, giving you those golden, crisp edges in under 20 minutes. 

My family loves this as an elevated side dish, but my partner loves it tossed through a salad or as a base for over easy eggs (don’t knock it until you try it!).

Table of Contents
  1. Key Ingredients
  2. How to make air fryer butternut squash
  3. Arman’s recipe tips
  4. Frequently asked questions
  5. Air Fryer Butternut Squash (Recipe Card)
  6. More tasty air fryer veggies

Why my recipe never fails

  • It’s so healthy. One serving of squash has plenty of fiber and antioxidants while being low in calories. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegan. 
  • Fast. Squash is quite firm and usually takes a while to cook, but the air fryer method will have it done in under 20 minutes.
  • Kids love it. I have a few picky eaters in my house, and I can guarantee even if they ‘hate’ veggies, they’ll love this recipe. 

What readers are saying

★★★★★ – “I never thought to cook butternut squash in the air fryer- it’s so tasty and easy.” – Lucy

★★★★★ – “This tastes just as good as oven-roasted butternut squash!” – Melinda from Facebook

Key Ingredients

ingredients for air fryer butternut squash.

Find the printable recipe with measurements below.

  • Butternut squash. Look for squash that’s firm with no bruised spots. It’ll need to be peeled with a vegetable peeler and cut into even-sized 1-inch cubes. 
  • Oil. I used olive oil, but avocado oil or any neutral cooking oil will do. 
  • Brown sugar. Just a pinch to complement the flavors of the squash.
  • Spices. I used garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  • Salt and black pepper. To taste. 
  • Fresh thyme. For garnish. Fresh rosemary is a great substitution. 

Recipe variations

Because I make this dish so often, I’ve experimented with a few different ways of serving it:

  • Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup for a more caramelized texture and flavor. It’s what I sometimes do with my air fryer apples, and it completely transforms the taste!
  • Garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds or candied pecans for a little crunch. 
  • Swap the spices. Try cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or chili powder. 

How to make air fryer butternut squash

chopped butternut squash in a bowl.chopped butternut squash in a bowl.

Step 1- Prep the squash. Place the chopped squash in a large bowl and drizzle with oil. Sprinkle the sugar and spices over the mixture and toss to coat. 

a single layer of butternut squash in the air fryer.a single layer of butternut squash in the air fryer.

Step 2- Air fry. Place the squash in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until lightly browned and fork-tender.

Arman’s recipe tips

  • Save time. When I’m in a pinch, I’ll use pre-cut butternut squash cubes. I’ve tested both fresh-cut and pre-packaged, and the main difference is size: larger store-bought cubes often take 3-5 minutes longer to cook through. If you’re using them, check for doneness with a fork rather than relying solely on my standard air frying time. 
  • Place the squash in a single layer so each piece has equal access to the circulating hot air. Stacked pieces lead to steaming instead of crisping. 
  • Shake the basket periodically. Every air fryer has “hot spots”. Shaking the basket helps redistribute the cubes so they caramelize evenly, giving you that balance of soft centers and golden edges. I’ve found this especially important when making bigger batches. 
air fried butternut squash.air fried butternut squash.

Frequently asked questions

Should I peel my butternut squash before air frying?

Yes, butternut squash should always be peeled, unlike other types of squash, which can be eaten with the peels on. 

How long does air fryer butternut squash last in the fridge?

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For the best texture, let the squash cool before sealing.

Can I freeze air fryer butternut squash?

Yes. Once cooked, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To prevent sticking, you can freeze the cubes in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a bag.

What is the best way to reheat it?

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 3-4 minutes to bring back the crisp edges. The microwave works in 20-second bursts if you’re short on time, but the texture will be softer. 

✅ Nutrition reviewed

Since this butternut squash recipe discusses health benefits, the nutrition information has been reviewed by registered dietitian Felicia Newell, MScAHN, RD, CPT.

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

  • Place the chopped squash in a bowl and drizzle with the olive oil.

  • Sprinkle the squash with brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh thyme, salt, and smoked paprika, and mix well, until the squash is fully coated.

  • Place the squash in the air fryer basket and air fry for 15 minutes, or until browned around the sides.

  • Leftovers: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or the freezer for up to 3 months. 

Serving: 1servingCalories: 97kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 4gSodium: 298mgPotassium: 517mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15029IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 73mgIron: 1mgNET CARBS: 15g

More tasty air fryer veggies

Originally published September 2024, updated and republished September 2025