Top 27 Acorn Squash Air Fryer Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

Acorn squash, with its sweet, nutty flavor and tender flesh, is a versatile ingredient that lends itself well to a variety of cooking methods. One such method that has gained popularity in recent years is using an air fryer. The air fryer offers a convenient and efficient way to cook acorn squash, allowing you to enjoy its delicious taste with minimal effort. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 27 mouthwatering acorn squash air fryer recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Acorn squash, a member of the winter squash family, is characterized by its distinctive shape and dark green or orange skin. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. When cooked in an air fryer, acorn squash develops a crispy exterior while retaining its tender interior, creating a delightful contrast in texture.

The air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food, resulting in a crispy exterior similar to deep-frying but with significantly less oil. This makes it an ideal cooking method for those looking to reduce their oil intake without sacrificing flavor or texture. Additionally, the air fryer cooks food quickly and evenly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

In the following sections, we’ll explore a variety of acorn squash air fryer recipes, ranging from savory to sweet, to suit every palate and occasion.

Top 27 Acorn Squash Air Fryer Recipes

1. Air Fryer Acorn Squash Fries

• Description: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these acorn squash fries are a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika.
• Instructions: Cut the acorn squash into fries, toss with olive oil and seasonings, then air fry until golden brown and crispy.

2. Stuffed Acorn Squash

• Description: This elegant dish features roasted acorn squash halves filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, vegetables, and herbs.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, quinoa, onion, garlic, bell pepper, spinach, feta cheese, herbs.
• Instructions: Roast the acorn squash in the air fryer, then fill with cooked quinoa and sautéed vegetables. Top with crumbled feta cheese and herbs before serving.

3. Honey Glazed Acorn Squash

• Description: Sweet and sticky, this honey glazed acorn squash is a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or poultry.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, honey, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg.
• Instructions: Brush acorn squash slices with a mixture of honey, melted butter, and spices, then air fry until caramelized and tender.

4. Acorn Squash Chips

• Description: Thinly sliced acorn squash chips are seasoned with herbs and spices, then air fried to crispy perfection.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme.
• Instructions: Slice the acorn squash thinly, toss with olive oil and seasonings, then air fry until crispy and golden brown.

5. Maple Roasted Acorn Squash

• Description: Maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to roasted acorn squash, creating a flavorful side dish that’s perfect for fall.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon.
• Instructions: Drizzle acorn squash slices with maple syrup, olive oil, and spices, then air fry until caramelized and tender.

6. Acorn Squash Soup

• Description: Creamy and comforting, this acorn squash soup is made by blending roasted squash with broth and seasonings.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, cream, nutmeg, thyme.
• Instructions: Roast the acorn squash in the air fryer, then purée with sautéed onions and garlic, vegetable broth, and cream until smooth. Season with nutmeg and thyme before serving.

7. Parmesan Crusted Acorn Squash

• Description: Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these parmesan-crusted acorn squash slices are a delicious appetizer or side dish.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, parsley.
• Instructions: Coat acorn squash slices in a mixture of parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then air fry until golden brown and crispy.

8. Acorn Squash Tacos

• Description: Roasted acorn squash cubes are seasoned with spices and served in tortillas with toppings like avocado, salsa, and cilantro.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, taco seasoning, tortillas, avocado, salsa, cilantro.
• Instructions: Toss acorn squash cubes with taco seasoning, then air fry until tender. Serve in tortillas with avocado, salsa, and cilantro.

9. Cinnamon Sugar Acorn Squash Rings

• Description: These sweet and spiced acorn squash rings are coated in cinnamon sugar and air fried until caramelized and tender.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, cinnamon, sugar, butter.
• Instructions: Coat acorn squash rings in a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter, then air fry until golden brown and caramelized.

10. Acorn Squash Risotto

• Description: Creamy and decadent, this acorn squash risotto is made by cooking arborio rice with roasted squash, broth, and cheese.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, arborio rice, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, parmesan cheese, sage.
• Instructions: Roast the acorn squash in the air fryer, then sauté with onions and garlic. Add arborio rice and broth, cooking until creamy. Stir in parmesan cheese and sage before serving.

11. Balsamic Glazed Acorn Squash

• Description: Tangy balsamic glaze adds depth of flavor to roasted acorn squash, making it a sophisticated side dish for any occasion.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, pepper.
• Instructions: Toss acorn squash slices with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper, then air fry until caramelized and tender.

12. Acorn Squash And Black Bean Enchiladas

• Description: Roasted acorn squash and black beans are rolled in tortillas, smothered in enchilada sauce, and baked until bubbly.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, black beans, enchilada sauce, tortillas, cheese, cilantro.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash cubes in the air fryer, then mix with black beans. Fill tortillas with the mixture, roll up, and place in a baking dish. Top with enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake until heated through. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

13. Acorn Squash And Apple Salad

• Description: This refreshing salad features roasted acorn squash, crisp apple slices, and tangy vinaigrette, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, apple, mixed greens, pecans, goat cheese, vinaigrette.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash slices in the air fryer, then toss with apple slices, mixed greens, pecans, goat cheese, and vinaigrette before serving.

14. Cajun Spiced Acorn Squash

• Description: Bold Cajun spices add a kick to roasted acorn squash, creating a flavorful side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, Cajun seasoning, olive oil, salt, pepper.
• Instructions: Toss acorn squash slices with Cajun seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then air fry until tender and caramelized.

15. Acorn Squash Breakfast Hash

• Description: This hearty breakfast hash features roasted acorn squash, potatoes, onions, and sausage, all cooked together in the air fryer until crispy and golden brown.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, potatoes, onion, sausage, eggs, parsley.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash cubes in the air fryer, then cook with diced potatoes, onions, and sausage until crispy. Serve topped with fried eggs and parsley.

16. Acorn Squash And Mushroom Quesadillas

• Description: Sautéed mushrooms and roasted acorn squash are layered with cheese in tortillas and cooked until golden and melted.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, mushrooms, cheese, tortillas, cilantro.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash slices in the air fryer, then sauté with mushrooms. Fill tortillas with the mixture and cheese, then cook until crispy and golden. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

17. Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Description: This lightened-up version of carbonara features roasted spaghetti squash noodles tossed with a creamy egg and cheese sauce.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, eggs, parmesan cheese, bacon, garlic, parsley.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash halves in the air fryer, then scrape out the flesh and toss with a mixture of eggs, parmesan cheese, cooked bacon, garlic, and parsley. Serve immediately.

18. Acorn Squash And Cranberry Quinoa Salad

• Description: This vibrant salad combines roasted acorn squash, tangy cranberries, nutty quinoa, and crunchy almonds, all tossed in a citrus vinaigrette.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, quinoa, cranberries, almonds, mixed greens, citrus vinaigrette.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash cubes in the air fryer, then toss with cooked quinoa, cranberries, almonds, mixed greens, and citrus vinaigrette before serving.

19. Buffalo Acorn Squash Bites

• Description: Crispy acorn squash bites are tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, creating a vegetarian twist on classic buffalo wings.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, buffalo sauce, blue cheese dressing, celery.
• Instructions: Coat acorn squash cubes in buffalo sauce, then air fry until crispy. Serve with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for dipping.

20. Acorn Squash And Sage Gnocchi

• Description: Pillowy gnocchi are flavored with roasted acorn squash and fresh sage, creating a comforting and flavorful pasta dish.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, potatoes, flour, egg, sage, butter, parmesan cheese.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash in the air fryer, then purée with cooked potatoes, flour, egg, and sage to form a dough. Shape into gnocchi, then cook until tender. Toss with melted butter and parmesan cheese before serving.

21. Acorn Squash And Chorizo Breakfast Burritos

• Description: Spicy chorizo sausage is paired with roasted acorn squash and scrambled eggs in these hearty breakfast burritos.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, chorizo sausage, eggs, cheese, tortillas, salsa.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash cubes in the air fryer, then cook with chorizo sausage until crispy. Add scrambled eggs and cheese, then fill tortillas and top with salsa before serving.

22. Acorn Squash And Kale Salad With Tahini Dressing

• Description: Nutty tahini dressing adds richness to this vibrant salad of roasted acorn squash, kale, chickpeas, and feta cheese.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, kale, chickpeas, feta cheese, tahini, lemon juice, garlic.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash slices in the air fryer, then toss with kale, chickpeas, feta cheese, and tahini dressing before serving.

23. Honey Mustard Glazed Acorn Squash

• Description: Tangy honey mustard glaze adds flavor to roasted acorn squash, making it a delicious side dish for grilled or roasted meats.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, honey mustard, olive oil, salt, pepper.
• Instructions: Brush acorn squash slices with a mixture of honey mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then air fry until caramelized and tender.

24. Acorn Squash And Gouda Grilled Cheese

• Description: Creamy gouda cheese melts over roasted acorn squash slices in this indulgent grilled cheese sandwich.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, gouda cheese, bread, butter.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash in the air fryer, then assemble sandwiches with gouda cheese and bread. Cook until golden and crispy in a skillet with melted butter.

25. Acorn Squash And Lentil Curry

• Description: Hearty lentil curry is flavored with roasted acorn squash and warming spices, creating a satisfying vegetarian meal.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, lentils, coconut milk, curry paste, onion, garlic, ginger.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash cubes in the air fryer, then simmer with cooked lentils, coconut milk, curry paste, onions, garlic, and ginger until thick and creamy. Serve over rice or with naan bread.

26. Acorn Squash And Cheddar Cornbread

• Description: Sweet and savory cornbread is studded with roasted acorn squash and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a delicious accompaniment to soups and stews.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, cornmeal, flour, cheddar cheese, buttermilk, eggs.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash in the air fryer, then mix with cornmeal, flour, cheddar cheese, buttermilk, and eggs. Bake until golden and cooked through.

27. Acorn Squash And Pecan Pie

• Description: This decadent pecan pie features a buttery crust filled with a rich mixture of roasted acorn squash, pecans, and warm spices.
• Ingredients: Acorn squash, pecans, brown sugar, eggs, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg.
• Instructions: Roast acorn squash in the air fryer, then purée with pecans, brown sugar, eggs, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour into a pie crust and bake until set.

Acorn squash is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be transformed into a wide range of delicious dishes using an air fryer. Whether you’re in the mood for savory or sweet, there’s an acorn squash air fryer recipe to suit every taste and occasion. From crispy fries to creamy soups to indulgent desserts, these 27 recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of acorn squash in all its glory. So dust off your air fryer and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of acorn squash in a whole new way!

Top 10 Global Flavors

Acorn squash, with its sweet and nutty flavor, is a versatile vegetable that can be transformed into delectable dishes using various cooking methods. Among these, air frying stands out as a convenient and efficient way to prepare acorn squash.

1. Honey Garlic Glazed Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, sliced
• Honey
• Garlic, minced
• Soy sauce
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
2. Toss sliced acorn squash in the glaze until evenly coated.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Arrange the coated squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.

2. Moroccan Spiced Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, cubed
• Moroccan spice blend (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss cubed acorn squash with Moroccan spice blend, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the squash is tender and golden brown.

3. Thai Peanut Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, sliced
• Peanut sauce (peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, garlic)
• Olive oil
• Crushed peanuts (for garnish)
• Cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Combine peanut sauce ingredients in a bowl to create the sauce.
2. Toss sliced acorn squash in olive oil and a portion of the peanut sauce.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
4. Arrange the coated squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly browned.
6. Drizzle with remaining peanut sauce and garnish with crushed peanuts and cilantro before serving.

4. Italian Herb Roasted Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, sliced
• Italian herb seasoning (basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss sliced acorn squash with Italian herb seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
3. Spread the seasoned squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and fragrant.

5. Mexican Street Corn Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, cubed
• Mexican seasoning blend (chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder)
• Lime juice
• Cotija cheese (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Toss cubed acorn squash with Mexican seasoning blend and lime juice.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
3. Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the squash is tender and slightly charred.
5. Garnish with crumbled Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro before serving.

6. Japanese Miso Glazed Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, sliced
• Miso paste
• Mirin
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Whisk together miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create the glaze.
2. Toss sliced acorn squash in the glaze until evenly coated.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
4. Arrange the coated squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

7. Indian Spiced Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, cubed
• Garam masala
• Turmeric
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Cayenne pepper
• Yogurt (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Toss cubed acorn squash with garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
3. Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly charred.
5. Serve with a dollop of yogurt and garnish with fresh cilantro.

8. Greek Lemon Garlic Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, sliced
• Lemon zest
• Garlic powder
• Dried oregano
• Olive oil
• Feta cheese (for garnish)
• Kalamata olives (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Toss sliced acorn squash with lemon zest, garlic powder, dried oregano, and olive oil.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
3. Arrange the seasoned squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and golden brown.
5. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives before serving.

9. Korean BBQ Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, sliced
• Korean BBQ sauce
• Sesame seeds
• Green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Toss sliced acorn squash in Korean BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
3. Arrange the coated squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions before serving.

10. Caribbean Jerk Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

• Acorn squash, cubed
• Caribbean jerk seasoning
• Pineapple chunks
• Red onion, sliced
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Toss cubed acorn squash with Caribbean jerk seasoning, pineapple chunks, and sliced red onion.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
3. Spread the seasoned squash mixture in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

My Favourite Air Fryer Recipe

Among the plethora of tantalizing acorn squash air fryer recipes, one that particularly stands out is the Thai Peanut Acorn Squash. This recipe combines the richness of peanut sauce with the natural sweetness of acorn squash, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The caramelization achieved through air frying enhances the dish’s complexity, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Plus, the garnish of crushed peanuts and cilantro adds a fresh and crunchy element, elevating the overall experience. Whether served as a side dish or a standalone meal, Thai Peanut Acorn Squash never fails to impress with its bold and vibrant profile.

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Just like traditional ovens, preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and better results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To allow proper air circulation and ensure crispiness, arrange ingredients in a single layer without overcrowding the basket.
• Use Oil Sparingly: While a light coating of oil can enhance flavor and texture, excessive oil can lead to soggy results. Use oil sparingly or consider using a cooking spray.
• Shake or Flip Midway: To promote even cooking and browning, shake the basket or flip the ingredients halfway through the cooking process.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Acorn squash pairs well with a variety of spices and seasonings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor profiles to find your favorite combinations.
• Adjust Cooking Times: Air fryers can vary in their cooking times and temperatures. Keep an eye on your food and adjust cooking times as needed to achieve the desired results.
• Utilize Accessories: Some air fryers come with accessories like racks and skewers, which can expand your cooking capabilities and allow you to cook multiple items simultaneously.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

• Prep Ahead: Spend some time prepping ingredients in advance, such as slicing or cubing acorn squash, to streamline the cooking process.
• Batch Cooking: Make larger quantities of air fryer recipes and store leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.
• Multi-Task: While your acorn squash is air frying, utilize the time to prepare other components of your meal or tackle other kitchen tasks.
• One-Pot Meals: Explore recipes that allow you to cook multiple ingredients in the air fryer simultaneously, minimizing cleanup and saving time.
• Frozen Options: Take advantage of frozen acorn squash or pre-made ingredients to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Conclusion

Acorn squash air fryer recipes offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing the versatility of this humble vegetable. From savory and spicy to sweet and tangy, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating delicious dishes in the air fryer. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, experimenting with different seasonings and techniques can lead to culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. So, fire up your air fryer and embark on a culinary journey filled with mouthwatering acorn squash creations that are sure to become family favorites.