Air Fryer Butternut Squash (Vegan + Oil-free)
- Total Time30 minutes
- Yield4 servings 1x
- DietVegan
This easy air fryer butternut squash recipe is oil-free, golden brown, and fork-tender in under 20 minutes. It’s the perfect healthy side dish for fall or Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium fresh butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed (3/4- to 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup (optional for sweetness, but I wouldn't leave it out)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (optional)
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tsp water or low-sodium vegetable broth (to help spices stick)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
- Prep the squash: In a large bowl, combine squash cubes, maple syrup (if using), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat evenly: Add a splash of water or broth, just enough to help the seasonings stick without making it soggy.
- Cook: Arrange the squash in a single layer in your air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Air fry for 20 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden brown and fork-tender.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Savory: Skip the maple syrup and add ½ tsp of Italian seasoning or cumin for a deeper, savory flavor.
- Sweet: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg before air frying.
- Shortcut: Use pre-cut butternut from the grocery store to save a bit of time.
- Air fryer tips: For best results, cook in an even layer and avoid crowding the basket.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 6.2 g
- Sodium: 7 mg
- Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 20.5 g
- Fiber: 3.1 g
- Protein: 1.6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dishes
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American