Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries

Learn how to make delicious Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries, a healthy and easy snack or side dish! These crispy, flavorful pumpkin fries are seasoned with garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs and then topped with Parmesan and fresh parsley. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and soft inside, they’re a simple option that everyone will love.

Made easily in your air fryer, these butternut squash fries are a delicious and nutritious twist on regular fries that everyone will love!

So discover how to make these crispy butternut squash fries in the air fryer with simple ingredients and minimal prep. These quick squash fries are a perfect side dish for anyone who loves fries but wants a healthier option that’s still full of taste.

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love fries, and if you’re on a special diet, regular fries may not fit the bill. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a healthier version with the same great flavor. Whenever I crave fries, I opt for zucchini fries , turnip fries, or these amazing butternut squash fries. They’re perfectly crispy and seasoned, making for a delicious and nutritious snack or side dish.

Why Are You Going To Love This Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries

• Crispy Texture: The fries come out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.
• Healthy Choice: A lower-carb alternative to regular fries, making them great for special diets.
• Easy Prep: Just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time.
• Air Fryer Convenience: Quick to cook in the air fryer, with less oil and mess.
• Versatile: Perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a light main course.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and fiber from the butternut squash.
• Customizable: Easy to adjust the seasoning to fit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Needed

Besides the fact that these air fryer butternut squash fries are crispy, healthy, and delicious, they are also super easy to make using a few simple pantry ingredients. Here is everything you will need:

• Butternut Squash – Choose a butternut squash with no stains that are firm to the touch for the best flavor and texture.
• Olive Oil – Helps the fries crisp up in the air fryer and enhances the flavor of the squash.
• Garlic Powder – Fresh minced garlic or garlic salt can be used. If using garlic salt, reduce additional salt to avoid over-seasoning.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a mild, smoky flavor and a touch of color to the fries.
• Italian Seasoning – You can use store-bought Italian seasoning or our recipe for homemade Italian seasoning.
• Salt&Pepper – To taste.
• Parsley – Chop finely and sprinkle over the fries after cooking. Adds a fresh, bright flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grate or shave fresh Parmesan and sprinkle over the fries after cooking.

How To Make Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries Recipe

You will need to follow a few easy steps to make the best butternut squash fries recipe. Here is everything you have to do:

Here’s an improved version of the steps with added clarity, ease, and pro tips from a chef to help make the best Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries:

Prep the Squash

Add Seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the fries. Toss until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. Pro Tip: Feel free to customize the seasoning to your liking—add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat or smoked paprika for more depth!

Peel and Cut: Start by peeling the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds.

Slice into Fries: Cut the squash into fry-shaped sticks, aiming for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. For perfectly crispy fries, cut them about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Consistent size is key to even cooking!

Season the Squash: In a large mixing bowl, toss the squash sticks with olive oil until they are lightly coated. Don’t overdo the oil; just a light coating will help them crisp up without becoming greasy.

Cook the Fries

Cook and Shake: Air fry the fries for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping. Check on them at the 10-minute mark. If you want extra crispiness, give them a few more minutes, but be careful not to burn them.

Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can cause the fries to steam instead of crisp up. Cook in batches if necessary for the best results.

Garnish and Serve

Once the pumpkin fries are golden brown and crispy, transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle chopped parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Tips For Making The Best Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries Recipe

• Choose Fresh Squash: Select a firm butternut squash with smooth, unblemished skin. Fresh squash will give you the best texture and flavor for your fries.
• Uniform Cutting: Ensure all squash pieces are cut into uniform fry-shaped sticks. This helps them cook evenly and ensures a consistent texture.
• Pat Dry: After cutting the squash, pat the pieces dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps the fries become crispier during cooking.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature before adding the squash. This ensures a crispy exterior and reduces cooking time.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the squash fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy fries. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Shake the Basket: Halfway through the cooking time, shake the air fryer basket to ensure the fries cook evenly and become crispy all over.
• Check for Crispiness: Since air fryers vary, check the fries a couple of minutes before the end of the cooking time. They should be golden brown and crispy. Adjust the time as needed for your specific air fryer model.
• Garnish Immediately: Sprinkle chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese over the fries right after they come out of the air fryer. This ensures the cheese melts slightly and the parsley sticks, enhancing the flavor and presentation.
• Serve Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve the fries immediately after cooking. They are best enjoyed warm and crispy.
• Experiment with Dips: For an extra flavor boost, pair your butternut squash fries with a variety of dips, such as ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo.

Storing Ideas

• Fridge: These air fryer butternut squash fries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: I don’t recommend freezing these fries since they will be soggy. However, you can freeze uncooked butternut fries and bake them from frozen. Just increase the cooking time to 25 minutes.

Do I Need To Peel The Butternut Squash?

Yes, peeling the butternut squash is recommended to ensure a smooth texture. The skin can be tough and fibrous, which might affect the final result of your fries.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Squash?

Yes, you can use other types of winter squash, like sweet potatoes, acorn squash, or kabocha squash. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will work similarly in this recipe.