Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with cozy, slightly sweet flavor. This simple air fryer recipe makes a lighter alternative to traditional fries that works as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.
Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries are the kind of side dish that feels a little indulgent but still fits into an easy weeknight plan.
With crisp edges, a tender center, and just the right amount of seasoning, these fries cook fast in the air fryer and pair perfectly with burgers, chicken, or your favorite dipping sauces.
Another perfect fall snack is Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts, perfect for the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
- Healthy & Low-Carb: These fries offer a nutritious alternative to regular fries, making them perfect for low-carb and keto diets.
- Crispy & Delicious: Imagine crispy butternut squash fries air fryer which ensures a crispy outside while maintaining a soft, creamy interior.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just minutes, they’re an ideal snack, side dish, or even appetizer for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Enjoy them on their own or pair with garlic thyme aioli or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Flavorful: Perfectly seasoned, these fries bring out the natural sweetness of butternut squash with a savory twist.
Ingredients
Here are the simple ingredients, you will need:
- Butternut Squash
- Olive Oil Spray or Avacado Spray: Make sure you use high-heat oil, so you don’t get a lot of smoke, coming out of your air fryer!
- Seasonings: Salt, Black Pepper and add your favorite seasonings! I gave you a few great suggestions below!
How To Make Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries
Step One: Begin by peeling the butternut squash and cutting it into fry-shaped sticks, roughly ¼-inch thick for even cooking. Start by cutting your butternut squash into fry shapes. This is great step-by-step instruction on how to do it. Pour them into a bowl, add the olive oil, seasonings, salt, and black pepper, mix well.
Step Two: Begin by peeling the butternut squash and cutting it into fry-shaped sticks, roughly ¼-inch thick for even cooking.
Step Three: Toss the squash fries in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Step Four: Set your air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F (200°C) preheat for 2-3 minutes. Place the seasoned butternut squash fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set cook time for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step Five: Once done, remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dip, like garlic aioli or ranch dressing!
Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a firm, unblemished butternut squash.
- Uniform Cutting: Cut the butternut squash into evenly sized fries (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick) to ensure they cook evenly.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of spices (like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne) enhance the flavor.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the fries in batches if necessary to allow for proper air circulation.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer can help achieve that desired crispy texture.
- Shake or Toss: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket or toss the fries to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Check for Doneness: Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of your fries and the air fryer model.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the fries right after cooking.
- Dipping Sauce: Pair your fries with a flavorful dipping sauce like garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries Recipe Faqs
How do I choose the right butternut squash? Look for a butternut squash that is firm, has smooth skin, and feels heavy for its size. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.
Do I need to peel the butternut squash? Yes, it’s recommended to peel the butternut squash before cutting it into fries. The skin can be tough and is not typically consumed.
How thick should I cut the butternut squash fries? Aim for uniform cuts about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and a nice crispy texture.
What seasoning works best for butternut squash fries? You can use a variety of seasonings! Common choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet twist.
How long do I need to cook butternut squash fries in the air fryer? Typically, they take about 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fries and your specific air fryer model.
Should I flip the fries while cooking? Yes, it’s a good idea to shake or flip the fries halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.
Can I make butternut squash fries ahead of time? While it’s best to serve them fresh, you can prep the fries ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I freeze butternut squash fries? Yes! To freeze, spread the uncooked fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What dips pair well with butternut squash fries? They pair wonderfully with garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha dip.
How To Cook Butternut Squash Zig Zags In The Air Fryer
To cook Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig Zags in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the zig zags in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes
- AIR FRYER SOUTHERN FRIED SQUASH
- AIR FRYER PARMESAN CRUSTED ZUCCHINI CRISPS
- EASY AIR FRYER ROASTED BROCCOLI WITH GARLIC
- AIR FRYER PARMESAN TOMATOES
- AIR FRYER FROZEN GREEN BEANS
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Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries
Description
Ingredients
- 1 pound butternut squash
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Garlic & Parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Peel the butternut squash, cut off both ends, and slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds, then cut the squash into thin, fry-sized strips.
- In a bowl, toss the squash fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings (like paprika, garlic powder, or cinnamon for a sweeter version).
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they crisp up evenly.
- Once golden and crispy on the outside, remove the fries and serve with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, garlic aioli, or ketchup!
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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