Air Fryer Butternut Squash Noodles

Air Fryer Butternut Squash Noodles -If you’re looking for a healthy, low-carb alternative to pasta, look no further than air fryer butternut squash noodles! They’re easy to make and taste delicious.

They’re a great way to add extra vegetables to your diet. Give them a try today!

Do you love noodles but don’t love all the carbs? Well, then, air fryer butternut squash noodles are for you!

You can create a delicious and healthy dish that satisfies your noodle cravings with just a few simple ingredients. Plus, the air frying process seals in all the nutrients and flavors, so you’ll get all the benefits of this superfood without any guilt. Give it a try today!

What Are Butternut Squash Noodles?

Have you ever seen those cute little spiral-shaped butternut squash in the grocery store and wondered what they’re for? It turns out they make a delicious pasta replacement! Read on to learn how to make butternut squash noodles with just a few simple ingredients. You might never go back to traditional pasta again!

Butternut squash noodles are one of the latest food trends. The popularity of spiralizing vegetables has led to increased recipes for butternut squash noodles.

Can You Make Homemade Butternut Squash Noodles In Air Fryer?

Yes, you can make homemade butternut squash noodles in an air fryer, offering a delicious, healthy, and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.

Air frying butternut squash noodles bring out their natural sweetness and provide a delightful, tender, and slightly crispy texture.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Butternut Squash Noodles

Embark on a culinary adventure with Air Fryer Butternut Squash Noodles, a vibrant, nutritious twist on traditional noodles. Perfect for those seeking a healthier, gluten-free alternative to pasta, these noodles offer a delightful blend of sweetness and texture that pairs beautifully with various sauces and seasonings. Here’s what you’ll need to create this simple yet delicious dish:

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Butternut Squash, Spiralized: Select a medium-sized butternut squash with a long neck for easy spiralizing. This winter squash transforms into sweet, tender noodles rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Salt: A sprinkle of salt brings out the inherent sweetness of the butternut squash, balancing the flavors and making the noodles even more irresistible.
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a slight kick and depth, complementing the sweetness of the squash for a well-rounded taste profile.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil ensures the noodles cook up crispy and golden, adding a subtle richness that enhances the squash’s natural flavor.
• Garlic Powder: For added seasoning. Optional

How To Make Butternut Squash Noodles In Air Fryer

Making butternut squash noodles in the air fryer is a quick and healthy way to enjoy a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta. Here’s a simple guide to creating this delicious and nutritious dish:

Start by laying out your butternut squash noodles on a paper towel for about 20 minutes. This will help draw some of the moisture out, which will help them to become crispy.

Add your butternut squash noodles to the air fryer basket, and add your seasonings. Spray with cooking spray. Set the temperature to 400 degrees F, air fryer setting, and cook for 7 to 9 minutes. Toss with a pair of tongs frequently during the cooking process. Remove when fork-tender.

Recipe Variations

Air fry butternut squash noodles are versatile dishes that can be adapted to fit a variety of flavor profiles and dietary preferences. Here are some creative variations to spice up your butternut squash noodles:

• Garlic Parmesan Butternut Squash Noodles: Toss the noodles with minced garlic before air frying, then sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley once cooked. The garlic adds a fragrant depth, while the Parmesan melts slightly for a savory, cheesy finish, transforming the noodles into a rich, flavorful dish.
• Spicy Thai Peanut Butternut Squash Noodles: After cooking, toss the noodles with a spicy Thai peanut sauce made from peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and Sriracha. This variation gives the noodles a bold, Asian-inspired flavor with a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy notes, ideal for those craving an exotic twist.
• Mediterranean Herb and Feta Butternut Squash Noodles: Season the noodles with a blend of Mediterranean herbs (like oregano, thyme, and rosemary) before air frying, and finish with crumbled feta and a squeeze of lemon juice. The herbs impart aromatic flavors, and the feta adds a tangy contrast, making the noodles a refreshing side dish that pairs well with grilled meats.
• Cinnamon Maple Butternut Squash Noodles: Mix the noodles with a touch of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup before air frying for a sweet version. The cinnamon’s warmth and the maple syrup’s natural sweetness enhance the butternut squash’s flavor, creating a cozy, dessert-like dish perfect for fall.
• Pesto Tossed Butternut Squash Noodles: After air frying, toss the noodles with your favorite pesto sauce, adding cherry tomatoes and pine nuts for extra texture and flavor. The fresh, vibrant taste of pesto complements the sweetness of the squash, making for a light yet satisfying meal or side dish.
• Smoky Chipotle Butternut Squash Noodles: Season the noodles with chipotle powder and a little smoked paprika before air frying, and serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. The smoky and slightly spicy flavors give the noodles a southwestern flair, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and smokiness in their dishes.

These variations of Air Fryer Butternut Squash Noodles offer exciting ways to enjoy this healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta. By experimenting with different seasonings, sauces, and toppings, you can create various dishes that cater to any taste or occasion.

Pro Tips

To elevate your Air Fryer Butternut Squash Noodles to the next level and ensure they come out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips to keep in mind:

• Choose the Right Squash: Select a butternut squash with a long, solid neck as it provides more flesh for making noodles and contains fewer seeds. A fresh, firm squash will yield the best texture and flavor.
• Uniform Noodles: Aim for consistent thickness to ensure even cooking when spiralizing the butternut squash. Thicker noodles might require a slightly longer cooking time, while thinner ones can become crispy more quickly.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the noodles in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowded noodles steam rather than fry, leading to softer, less crispy results.
• Toss for Even Coating: Toss the noodles with oil and seasoning in a bowl before air frying to ensure an even coating. This helps the seasonings distribute more uniformly, enhancing the flavor and aiding in the crisping process.
• Shake the Basket: Halfway through cooking, give the air fryer basket a gentle shake or use tongs to toss the noodles. This promotes even browning and prevents sticking, ensuring all sides of the noodles get nicely crisped.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Check the noodles before the suggested cooking time ends. Depending on their thickness and your air fryer model, cooking times may vary. The noodles should be tender with slightly crispy edges.
• Experiment with Flavors: Butternut squash noodles are versatile and absorb flavors well. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs, spices, or sauces to suit your taste preferences and complement the dish they’re served with.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the noodles right after cooking while they’re still warm and crispy. If they sit too long, they can soften and lose their appealing texture.
• Reheating Tips: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. This method is much more effective than microwaving, which can make the noodles soggy.
• Nutritional Boost: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or hemp seeds for a cheesy flavor or a protein punch without altering the dish’s gluten-free and vegan qualities.

By following these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Air Fryer Butternut Squash Noodles turn out deliciously every time, whether you’re enjoying them as a healthy pasta alternative, a side dish, or a base for your favorite sauce.

Faq’s

Can I make butternut squash noodles without a spiralizer? Yes, if you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or even a regular vegetable peeler to create wider, ribbon-like noodles. The texture and cooking time might vary slightly, but the result will still be delicious.

How do I prevent the noodles from becoming too soft or mushy? To avoid mushy noodles, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, which can cause them to steam rather than fry. Also, be mindful of the cooking time; start checking a few minutes early, as thinner noodles can cook quickly and become soft if overdone.

Are butternut squash noodles healthy? Yes, butternut squash noodles are a healthy, low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta. They’re rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.

How long do butternut squash noodles take to cook in the air fryer? Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of the noodles and the specific model of your air fryer, but generally, butternut squash noodles take about 7-10 minutes to cook at 380°F (193°C). It’s a good idea to start checking them around the 7-minute mark to ensure they don’t overcook.

Can I season butternut squash noodles before air frying them? Absolutely! Tossing the noodles with a bit of oil and your choice of seasonings before air frying can add depth and flavor. From simple salt and pepper to more elaborate spice blends, seasoning the noodles beforehand can elevate the dish.

What sauces go well with butternut squash noodles? Butternut squash noodles pair well with a variety of sauces, from classic tomato sauce to creamy Alfredo, pesto, or even a Thai peanut sauce. The natural sweetness of the squash complements both rich and light sauces beautifully.

Can I store leftover air-fried butternut squash noodles? Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or on the stovetop for the best texture upon serving.

Is it necessary to peel butternut squash before making noodles? While the skin of butternut squash is edible, it’s recommended to peel it for noodle dishes to ensure a uniform texture and better absorption of flavors. The skin can be tough and may not cook as evenly as the flesh.

Can I freeze butternut squash noodles before or after cooking? It’s best to freeze butternut squash noodles after spiralizing but before cooking. Spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This helps prevent them from sticking together. Cook from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

How can I make butternut squash noodles crispy? For crispier noodles, ensure they’re not overcrowded in the air fryer basket, which allows for better air circulation. Cooking them at a slightly higher temperature for a shorter duration can also help achieve a crisper texture.

What To Serve With Air-Fried Noodles

Are you looking for a sauce to pair with your butternut squash noodles? Check out some of my favorite spices that will enhance the flavor of your dish! Of course, you don’t need any sauce, they are perfectly roasted with the air fryer, and with a bit of seasoning, they are the perfect side dish.

To add even more flavor, some of my favorite sauces are Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce, Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Recipe, or even Alfredo Dip!

Storing

If you have any leftovers, let them cool to room temperature and then place them into an airtight container. placed into the refrigerator will last for about 2 to 3 days. You can reheat it in the air fryer or microwave.

Freezing

This is a great recipe to freeze ahead, although, for best results, I would freeze before air frying. They will last in a freezer bag or freezer-safe container for about 2 to 3 months. You can either air fry from frozen or air fry from thawed.

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