Need help finding a recipe?

  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Crumb Top Baking

Simple, Approachable Desserts and Savory Recipes

  • Home
  • About
  • All Recipes
  • Air Fryer
  • Desserts
  • Subscribe
  • Photography
You are here: Home / Air Fryer Recipes / Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Air Fryer Butternut Squash

September 25, 2024 Updated: September 25, 2024 By Leanne 74 Comments

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This Air Fryer Butternut Squash recipe is an easy fall and holiday side dish that requires just a few ingredients and comes together quickly in your air fryer. It’s seasoned with herbs and spices and a little maple syrup, so it roasts up sweet, savory and tender in the air fryer. Enjoy this recipe using squash cubes or squash halves. I’ve included instructions for both in the recipe.

Squash cubes served in a dish with a spoon.

Fall is most definitely my favorite time of year, and one of the reasons is because it’s butternut squash season!

I normally enjoy this sweet winter squash in creamy soups like roasted red pepper and butternut squash soup or carrot and butternut squash soup. It’s also delicious roasted, and it’s especially delicious prepared in the air fryer.

I first published this air fried butternut squash recipe in October 2019, back when I was using a toaster oven style air fryer for my recipes. Since my go-to is now a larger basket style air fryer, I decided to update the recipe to reflect this. I also included a few tweaks to the recipe, new photos and more helpful tips for readers.

Table of contents

  • What makes this air fryer butternut squash recipe so good?
  • Ingredients and substitutions
  • How to cut butternut squash into cubes
  • How to cook butternut squash cubes in the air fryer
  • How to roast butternut squash halves in the air fryer
  • What to serve with butternut squash
  • Storage and reheating tips
  • Key recipe tips
  • Recipe FAQs
  • More squash recipes
  • More air fryer recipes

What makes this air fryer butternut squash recipe so good?

  • The squash turns out so tender and sweet with caramelized edges. I normally eat half of the squash cubes straight out of the air fryer before they make it to the serving dish!
  • The dried sage that’s added to the mix of seasonings really takes the fall flavors up a notch.
  • We’re also adding maple syrup and smoked paprika for a sweet and smoky addition.
  • It’s a great recipe to prep for Thanksgiving or Christmas. You can peel and cut your squash a day in advance, and cooking it in the air fryer frees up valuable oven space.
  • The air fryer is also faster than roasting squash in the oven.
  • The recipe includes options to air fry the squash as cubes (similar to home fries) or halves (with the skin left on).

Ingredients and substitutions

Below is a brief overview of the ingredients and recommended substitutions. The recipe card at the end of this post includes the exact quantities used.

Ingredients to make air fryer butternut squash arranged individually on a wooden surface.
  • Butternut squash – You’ll need one medium-sized squash for this recipe, which will yield about 4 cups of cubed squash. I usually buy a 2 1/2 to 3 pound squash to make sure I have enough.
  • Oil – I used olive oil, but you can also use extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil.
  • Maple syrup – Adds a touch of sweetness and helps to caramelize the edges of the squash cubes. You can also substitute with brown sugar.
  • Italian seasoning – I love the mix of dried herbs in Italian-style seasoning. If you don’t have any, feel free to make your own with a mix of dried thyme, rosemary, marjoram, savory, sage, oregano and basil. Or use any combination of these herbs.
  • Dried sage – The Italian seasoning includes dried sage, but I love the pairing of butternut squash with sage, so I decided to add more. If you don’t have any, feel free to leave it out or just use more Italian seasoning.
  • Garlic powder – A staple in most of my savory dishes! I don’t recommend substituting with garlic salt as the squash will end up too salty.
  • Smoked paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness to the recipe. You can substitute with regular paprika but it won’t add the same smoky flavor.
  • Salt – Don’t go over board on salt, but feel free to add more to taste once the squash is ready to serve.

How to cut butternut squash into cubes

I have a separate post on how to peel and cut a butternut squash with step by step photos. Below is just a quick overview.

  1. Make sure you have a large sharp knife and that your cutting surface is stable. Cut the top and bottom off the squash. By doing this, you can stand up the squash and it’s easier to work with.
  2. Peel the squash with a vegetable peeler. I prefer a Y peeler but a swivel will work too. Avoid trying to peel it with a knife.
  3. Once peeled, cut the squash in half where the neck meets the body. Stand the neck on its end and cut it in half. Cut each half into slices and then cut into 1-inch cubes.
  4. Cut the body in half and scoop out the seeds. (Save the seeds to air fry them like these air fryer pumpkin seeds). Slice each half into slices and then chop the slices into 1-inch cubes.

How to cook butternut squash cubes in the air fryer

Below is a brief overview of the steps to make this recipe along with photos. For further details, please see the recipe card at the end of this post.

Squash cubes tossed with oil and maple syrup with seasonings on the side.
Step 1: Add the squash cubes, oil and maple syrup to a bowl and toss to combine.
Squash cubes tossed with seasonings in a glass bowl.
Step 2: Add the seasonings and toss until the cubes are well coated.
Seasoned squash cubes in an air fryer basket.
Step 3: Arrange in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
Air fried butternut squash cubes in an air fryer basket.
Step 4: Air fry on 400F for 13-15 minutes, or until fork tender.

How to roast butternut squash halves in the air fryer

If you want to save time, just cut your squash in half, scoop out the seeds and air fry. No peeling or chopping required!

Butternut squash halves brushed with oil and arranged in air fryer basket.
Step 1: Cut your squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and any stringy flesh. Brush the flesh with one tablespoon of oil.
Squash halves air fried for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Air fry cut side up at 360F for 15 minutes.
Squash halves with maple syrup and seasonings sprinkled on.
Step 3: Carefully brush with remaining oil and maple syrup and sprinkle on the seasoning. (Only use about 1/4 of the seasoning that you would use for the squash cubes as there is much less surface area to cover).
Finished squash halves in an air fryer basket.
Step 4: Air fry for another 10-15 minutes, or until fork tender. When it’s cooled enough to handle, scoop the flesh out and enjoy it mashed, or in casseroles, soups or sauces.

What to serve with butternut squash

  • It makes the perfect holiday side dish to serve with your turkey or ham, sausage stuffing and Brussels sprouts!
  • My favorite way to dress up squash is with some homemade savory granola and fresh chopped parsley.
  • You can also add some roasted pumpkin seeds or toasted pecans. The crunchy texture with the fork tender squash is delicious!
  • You can also serve this squash in grain bowls or salads, like this roasted root vegetable salad.

Storage and reheating tips

The squash cubes are best served and enjoyed immediately. If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

To reheat the squash cubes, air fry them on 400F for 3-5 minutes. Just note that they will have a softer texture once reheated.

The squash halves can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. I prefer to scoop out the squash first and then store it. When ready to eat, just reheat it in the microwave for a minute or two.

Key recipe tips

  • Prepping squash halves. Make sure you buy a squash that fits in your air fryer. You can cut about 1/4 inch off the bottom to help stabilize it and make it easier to cut in half. You may also need to cut the stem off to fit it in your air fryer.
  • Size of squash cubes. When cutting the squash into cubes, you’ll want them to be close in size so they air fry evenly. This recipe uses 1-inch cubes. If you have smaller or larger cubes, you will need to adjust the air frying time.
  • Pre-cut squash. If you want to save a bit of time, you can buy pre-cut butternut squash cubes at your grocery store.
  • Single layer. You’ll want to air fry the squash cubes in a single layer so they cook evenly. Make sure to stop and shake the basket a few times while cooking.
  • Air fryers can vary. Different air fryer brands and sizes will differ so you may need to adjust the air frying time slightly depending on your air fryer. The squash is ready when it’s fork tender.
  • Spice it up. To add a little spice to the squash, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Avoid fresh herbs. You’ll want to stick with dried herbs and garlic powder for this recipe. Fresh chopped herbs and minced garlic do not coat the squash evenly and burn quickly. Save the fresh herbs for a garnish at the end!
Close up of air fried butternut squash cubes in a serving dish.

Recipe FAQs

Can you air fry frozen butternut squash cubes?

Fresh squash cubes are best for this recipe. While I sometimes use frozen butternut squash for other recipes, I don’t recommend using them in this air fryer recipe. The cubes get a bit watery, which results in a soft and mushy texture.

Do you need to peel the squash before air frying it?

If you are air frying the squash in halves, then you’ll want to leave the skin on. If you are air frying the squash as cubes, you’ll want to peel the skin.

Can another type of squash be used in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute buttercup squash, honeynut squash, acorn squash or sugar pumpkin in this recipe. Just note you may need to adjust the air frying time slightly.

More squash recipes

  • Butternut Squash Bread
  • Butternut Squash Quiche
  • Mashed Acorn Squash
  • Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

More air fryer recipes

  • Air Fryer Carrots
  • Air Fryer Tortilla Chips
  • Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel
  • Air Fryer Parmesan Potatoes
  • Air Fryer Pumpkin Fries

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think in the comments below!

HUNGRY FOR MORE?  Follow Crumb Top Baking on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Air fryer butternut squash cubes in a serving dish with chopped pecans, pumpkin seeds and fresh herbs.

Air Fryer Butternut Squash

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 28 reviews
  • Author: Leanne
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Air Fry
  • Cuisine: American, Canadian
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe
Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Description

Air Fryer Butternut Squash is seasoned with herbs, spices and maple syrup and air fried until tender. Try it as squash cubes or halves!


Ingredients

  • 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 1/2 – 3 lbs)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt


Instructions

For squash cubes:

  1. Peel and chop the squash into 1-inch cubes. You’ll need 4 cups of squash cubes. (See section above on how to cut a butternut squash).
  2. Add the squash cubes, oil and maple syrup to a bowl and toss to combine.
  3. Add the seasonings and toss until the cubes are well coated.
  4. Arrange in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
  5. Air fry on 400F for 13-15 minutes, or until fork tender, stopping a few times to shake the basket.

For squash halves:

  1. Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and any stringy flesh. Brush the flesh with one tablespoon of oil.
  2. Air fry flesh side up at 360F for 15 minutes.
  3. Carefully brush the flesh with remaining oil and maple syrup and sprinkle on the seasoning. (Only use about 1/4 of the seasoning that you would use for the squash cubes as there is much less surface area to cover. You can also just season it with salt and pepper if you prefer).
  4. Air fry for another 10-15 minutes, or until fork tender.

Notes

  1. If you want to save a bit of time, you can buy pre-cut butternut squash cubes at your grocery store.
  2. Cut the squash cubes close in size so they air fry evenly. This recipe uses 1-inch cubes. If you have smaller or larger cubes, you will need to adjust the air frying time.
  3. Air fry the squash cubes in a single layer so they cook evenly, and shake the basket a few times to rotate them around.
  4. For the squash halves, make sure you buy a squash that fits in your air fryer. You may need to cut the stem off to fit it in.
  5. To add a little spice to the squash, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
  6. Use dried herbs and garlic powder for this recipe. Fresh chopped herbs and minced garlic do not coat the squash evenly and burn quickly.
  7. Different air fryer brands and sizes will differ so you may need to adjust the air frying time slightly depending on your air fryer. The squash is ready when it’s fork tender.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @crumbtopbaking on Instagram and hashtag it #crumbtopbaking

Filed Under: Air Fryer Recipes, All Recipes, Dairy-Free, Fall Recipes, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Holiday Recipes, Side Dishes, Vegan, Vegetarian

Previous Post: « How to Peel and Cut Butternut Squash
Next Post: Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Carrie says

    December 12, 2020 at 8:33 pm

    So good! I used avocado oil and a honey butternut squash. I have the vortex plus and only needed 10 minutes of cook time. Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      December 13, 2020 at 2:15 pm

      Hi Carrie! So glad you enjoyed the recipe. And thanks for sharing your substitutions and the cook time for the Vortex Plus!

      Reply
  2. Kelly says

    October 12, 2020 at 11:23 am

    Perfect side dish at our Thanksgiving dinner this weekend.

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 13, 2020 at 4:37 pm

      So good to hear! Thanks Kelly!

      Reply
  3. Julie says

    August 4, 2020 at 8:42 pm

    We are new to a plant based diet and to the air fryer and love both. The butternut squash recipe is right on. I’ve applied it to some other “sturdy” veggies and it works great for those too. Way to go on this!

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      August 6, 2020 at 8:06 pm

      That’s so good to hear Julie! Thanks for letting me know. I’m glad you’re enjoying your air fryer!

      Reply
  4. Julie says

    August 2, 2020 at 11:22 pm

    I made this tonight. The seasonings were good however the squash was still a little more mushy than I care for. The next time I cook this I will do it at a slightly higher temperature

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      August 3, 2020 at 5:48 pm

      Hi Julie. Thanks for your feedback. If you air fry them at a higher temperature, just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

      Reply
  5. Cathleen @ A Taste of Madness says

    October 15, 2019 at 1:11 pm

    This is genius!! I was about to buy a butternut squash, but I didn’t know what to do with it. Now I need to buy a butternut squash AND an air fryer, or else I won’t be able to stop thinking about this!!

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:55 pm

      Haha! Thanks Cathleen! Hope you were able to buy both and give this recipe a try!

      Reply
  6. Jaida ~ Sweet Beginnings says

    October 15, 2019 at 9:04 am

    These look amazing, Leanne! The hubs has been asking me if I want an air fryer and I keep debating, because space and yet another appliance, but the more I’m seeing recipes like this one, the more I’m thinking I DO need one!

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:24 pm

      We love our air fryer! Thanks Jaida!

      Reply
  7. Renu says

    October 14, 2019 at 5:50 pm

    Loving all the tips you shared here to cut that butternut squash. I love it, but do not buy much as it is so difficult to cut, will follow your steps next time. The air fryer fries looks perfectly crisp

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:25 pm

      Thanks Renu! I’m you glad you find the tips helpful!

      Reply
  8. Jenni LeBaron says

    October 14, 2019 at 1:34 am

    These butternut squash home fries look so delicious and cooking them in an air fryer is brilliant because they get perfectly crispy on the outside.

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:26 pm

      Thanks Jenni!

      Reply
  9. Ramona says

    October 13, 2019 at 4:24 pm

    This squash looks just perfect. I definitely need to get an air-frier soon.

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:26 pm

      We love ours! Thanks Ramona!

      Reply
  10. Gunjan says

    October 13, 2019 at 1:08 pm

    This is cool. I have not tried butternut squash in air fryer. I am maki g this right now.

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:26 pm

      Hope you liked it! Thanks!

      Reply
  11. Christie says

    October 12, 2019 at 10:22 pm

    I’ve roasted butternut squash, but never thought of fries! Genius! And I love that they’re made in the air fryer. Love mine.

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:26 pm

      Thanks Christie!

      Reply
  12. Jacqui Debono says

    October 12, 2019 at 8:45 pm

    I am new to having an air fryer – will definitely be trying this one with the squash from the garden!

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:27 pm

      Be sure to let me know what you think!

      Reply
  13. Erika says

    October 12, 2019 at 12:56 pm

    I don’t eat butternut squash nearly enough. I need to try this!

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:27 pm

      Hope you get a chance to make it!

      Reply
  14. Alex says

    October 12, 2019 at 7:44 am

    My mum has an airfryer and her chips are always incredible so I’m sure this would be delicious too, with all those blackened garnly bits (yum!). I will pass the recipe on to her to try!

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:27 pm

      Thanks Alex! I hope your mom gets a chance to try the recipe!

      Reply
  15. Stine Mari says

    October 12, 2019 at 4:26 am

    Ok I think I need to get an air fryer solely for this recipe! It looks absolutely scrumptious and perfect for Thanksgiving. Love how thorough you explain things too.

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:28 pm

      Thanks so much! We love our air fryer!

      Reply
  16. Denise@urbnspice says

    October 11, 2019 at 11:18 pm

    This is such a lovely side dish, Leanne! The photographs looks delicious! Butternut squash is one of my favourite fall squashes. Thanks for all the tips and techniques. I am sure many folks will be making your Air Fryer Butternut Squash side dish recipe for Thanksgiving this year :).

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:29 pm

      Thanks for your kind comment Denise! Hope all is well!

      Reply
  17. Yvonne Langen says

    October 11, 2019 at 12:18 pm

    Leanne, I’m SO happy you shared this recipe. I have lots of butternut squash leftover from an earlier recipe that I’ve been looking to find a use for. This is perfect for Thanksgiving weekend!

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:29 pm

      Great timing! Thanks Yvonne! Hope you liked it!

      Reply
  18. Shareba says

    October 10, 2019 at 2:39 pm

    I’ve never tried making squash in my air fryer, I’ll have to try this soon!

    Reply
    • Leanne says

      October 30, 2019 at 10:29 pm

      Hope you get the chance!

      Reply
« Older Comments
Newer Comments »

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

Meet Leanne

Hey there! I'm Leanne and welcome to Crumb Top Baking. I'm a self-taught baker, home cook and food photographer, and I'm passionate about sharing well-tested, simple and approachable desserts and savory recipes. Learn more about me and what you'll find on Crumb Top Baking....

Follow Crumb Top Baking

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest

Find a recipe

AIR FRYER RECIPES

Air fryer mushrooms and onions served in a white bowl with a serving spoon inserted into it.

Air Fryer Mushrooms and Onions

Air fryer peppers and onions served in an oval dish with a spoon inserted into it.

Air Fryer Peppers and Onions

Air fryer chicken parmesan served on plates with spaghetti and marinara sauce.

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Close up view of air fryer cornflake chicken strips on a plate.

Crispy Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken Strips

Copyright © 2025 crumbtopbaking.com - Privacy Policy & Terms of Use

Pinterest image for air fryer butternut squash.
Crumb Top Baking Text LogoLogo Header Menu
  • Home
  • About
  • All Recipes
  • Air Fryer
  • Desserts
  • Subscribe
  • Photography