Delicious Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries Recipe

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Air Fryer Butternut Squash has become my go-to recipe for a delicious and healthy snack. This easy air fryer butternut squash fries recipe transforms the humble butternut squash into crispy, golden delights that are perfect for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a guilt-free alternative to traditional fries. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a side dish to accompany your meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Butternut Squash

There are countless reasons to love this air fryer butternut squash recipe. Here are just a few:

Quick cooking time of just 25 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute snack.
Healthy alternative to regular fries: low in carbs and gluten-free.
Versatile seasoning options allow for customization to suit your taste.
Crispy texture that mimics traditional frying without the excess oil.
Rich in vitamins and minerals, providing a nutritious boost.
Kids love them, making them a great way to introduce vegetables into their diet.
Ideal for meal prep: you can easily make a batch to last the week.
Perfectly fits the American cuisine style while being a healthy diet option.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Gather these items:

1 large Butternut Squash
2 tablespoons Corn Starch (or Tapioca Flour)
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Paprika
1/2 cup Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
1 clove Garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon Thyme (fresh or dried)
1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
1/4 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Air Fryer Butternut Squash Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep the Squash: Peel the butternut squash and slice it into thin, uniform fries.
Step 2: Coating: Dust the fries with corn starch or tapioca flour, then toss with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 3: Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Air Fry: Cook fries for 15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes for an even cook.
Step 5: Prepare Aioli: Mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 6: Serve: Enjoy the fries immediately with the aioli or your preferred dipping sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Keep these in mind:

Make sure the fries are cut evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
Experiment with different spices to find your favorite flavor profile.
For a sweeter twist, drizzle some maple syrup over the fries before serving.
Using fresh garlic instead of powdered garlic can enhance the flavor.

Delicious Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries Recipe - Air Fryer Butternut Squash - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Here are some ideas to enjoy your air fryer butternut squash:

Serve with a side of homemade aioli for dipping.
Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal or snack.
Add to a grain bowl with quinoa and veggies for a filling dish.
Try them alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Butternut Squash

To store, place any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, use the air fryer again for a few minutes at 350°F to restore their crispiness. This makes for an excellent meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Butternut Squash

What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Butternut Squash?

The secret is to cut the squash into even pieces, ensuring they cook uniformly and achieve that delicious crispy texture. Seasoning is also key, so use your favorite spices!

Can I make Air Fryer Butternut Squash ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and coat the butternut squash fries ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to air fry them.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Butternut Squash?

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can prevent the fries from getting crispy. Also, be sure to shake the basket during cooking for even browning.

Variations of Air Fryer Butternut Squash You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a savory twist.
Try using different spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick.
Mix in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor while keeping it vegan.
Experiment with different dipping sauces like ranch or spicy sriracha.

Delicious Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries Recipe - Air Fryer Butternut Squash - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or try making Caramel Apple Bread for a sweet treat!

For dessert ideas, don’t miss our Salted Caramel Cookies or Ghost Brownies!

Lastly, if you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of butternut squash, check out this Healthline article.