Top 27 Squash Air Fryer Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

Squash is a versatile vegetable that can be transformed into delightful dishes with the help of an air fryer. With its crispy texture and rich flavor, squash becomes even more appealing when cooked in an air fryer. Whether you’re a fan of butternut, acorn, or delicata squash, there are numerous recipes to explore. In this article, we’ll delve into 27 mouthwatering squash air fryer recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this underrated vegetable.

Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking by offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. These countertop appliances use hot air circulation to crisp up food, requiring only a fraction of the oil used in deep frying. Squash, with its natural sweetness and tender flesh, lends itself beautifully to air frying. From savory snacks to hearty meals and decadent desserts, the possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking squash in an air fryer.

In this article, we’ll explore a variety of squash air fryer recipes that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re craving a simple side dish or a satisfying main course, you’ll find inspiration in the recipes provided. Let’s dive into the world of squash air fryer cooking and discover the delightful flavors awaiting you.

Top 27 Squash Air Fryer Recipes

1. Crispy Butternut Squash Fries

Transform butternut squash into crispy fries by slicing it into thin strips, tossing them with olive oil, salt, and your favorite seasonings, then air frying until golden brown and tender on the inside. Serve with a side of dipping sauce for a delicious snack or appetizer.

2. Stuffed Acorn Squash

Halve acorn squash and scoop out the seeds, then stuff them with a mixture of quinoa, vegetables, and herbs. Place the stuffed squash halves in the air fryer and cook until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through. This makes for a hearty and nutritious meal.

3. Delicata Squash Rings

Slice delicata squash into rings, remove the seeds, and toss them with olive oil, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Arrange the rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook until caramelized and tender. These make for a sweet and savory side dish or snack.

4. Butternut Squash Risotto Balls

Prepare a creamy butternut squash risotto, then shape it into balls and coat them in breadcrumbs. Air fry the risotto balls until golden and crispy on the outside, while still creamy on the inside. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

5. Spaghetti Squash Hash Browns

Shred cooked spaghetti squash and mix it with diced onions, garlic, and seasonings. Form the mixture into patties and air fry until golden and crispy. These spaghetti squash hash browns make for a tasty and nutritious breakfast or brunch option.

6. Parmesan Crusted Acorn Squash

Coat acorn squash slices with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning. Air fry until the squash is tender and the coating is crispy and golden brown. Serve as a flavorful side dish or appetizer.

7. Honey Glazed Butternut Squash

Toss cubed butternut squash with honey, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Air fry until the squash is caramelized and tender, then garnish with chopped pecans for added crunch and flavor. This dish makes for a delightful side dish or dessert.

8. Stuffed Delicata Squash

Slice delicata squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Fill the cavities with a mixture of cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices. Air fry until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through. Top with avocado slices and salsa for a satisfying meal.

9. Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese Bites

Mix cooked butternut squash puree with cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, then shape the mixture into bite-sized balls. Coat the balls in breadcrumbs and air fry until crispy and golden brown. These make for a tasty appetizer or snack for kids and adults alike.

10. Acorn Squash Soup

Blend cooked acorn squash with vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and spices until smooth. Transfer the mixture to the air fryer and cook until heated through. Serve hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a comforting soup option.

11. Butternut Squash Tots

Grate raw butternut squash and mix it with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Shape the mixture into tots and air fry until golden and crispy. These butternut squash tots are a healthier alternative to traditional potato tots and make for a delicious snack or side dish.

12. Delicata Squash Tacos

Slice delicata squash into thin rounds and toss them with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Air fry until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Serve the squash rounds in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

13. Butternut Squash Chips

Slice butternut squash into thin rounds, toss them with olive oil and your choice of seasonings, then air fry until crispy. These butternut squash chips make for a crunchy and addictive snack that’s perfect for munching on-the-go.

14. Acorn Squash Breakfast Bowl

Roast acorn squash halves until tender, then fill them with Greek yogurt, granola, berries, and a drizzle of honey. Place the filled squash halves in the air fryer and cook until warmed through. This acorn squash breakfast bowl is a nutritious and filling way to start your day.

15. Butternut Squash Quesadillas

Spread mashed butternut squash on one half of a tortilla, then top it with black beans, cheese, and salsa. Fold the tortilla in half and air fry until crispy and golden brown. Serve the quesadilla with sour cream and guacamole for a satisfying meal.

16. Delicata Squash Fritters

Grate delicata squash and mix it with flour, eggs, herbs, and spices to form a batter. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the air fryer and cook until golden and crispy. These delicata squash fritters make for a tasty appetizer or side dish.

17. Butternut Squash And Kale Salad

Roast cubed butternut squash until caramelized and tender, then toss it with massaged kale, toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and a tangy vinaigrette. Serve as a hearty and nutritious salad that’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish.

18. Stuffed Acorn Squash Bowls

Roast acorn squash halves until tender, then fill them with a mixture of cooked quinoa, spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. Return the filled squash halves to the air fryer and cook until heated through. These stuffed acorn squash bowls make for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

19. Butternut Squash And Sage Risotto

Prepare a creamy risotto with butternut squash puree and fresh sage, then serve it hot from the air fryer. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for entertaining.

20. Delicata Squash Noodles

Using a spiralizer, turn delicata squash into noodles, then toss them with pesto sauce and cherry tomatoes. Air fry until the noodles are tender and slightly crispy. This dish is a lighter alternative to traditional pasta and is bursting with flavor.

21. Butternut Squash And Black Bean Enchiladas

Fill corn tortillas with a mixture of roasted butternut squash, black beans, onions, and cheese, then roll them up and place them in the air fryer. Cook until the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with salsa and guacamole for a delicious Mexican-inspired meal.

22. Acorn Squash Stuffed With Wild Rice

Roast acorn squash halves until tender, then fill them with cooked wild rice, mushrooms, onions, and herbs. Return the stuffed squash halves to the air fryer and cook until heated through. This dish makes for a hearty and flavorful vegetarian main course.

23. Butternut Squash And Apple Soup

Blend cooked butternut squash with sautéed apples, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth until smooth. Transfer the mixture to the air fryer and cook until heated through. Garnish with chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a comforting and delicious soup option.

24. Delicata Squash Pizza

Slice delicata squash into thin rounds and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange the squash rounds on a pre-made pizza crust, then top with tomato sauce, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings. Air fry until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

25. Butternut Squash And Chickpea Curry

Simmer cubed butternut squash and chickpeas in a flavorful curry sauce made with coconut milk, curry paste, and spices. Once the squash is tender and the flavors have melded together, serve the curry hot from the air fryer over steamed rice for a satisfying and aromatic meal.

26. Acorn Squash Stuffed With Quinoa Salad

Roast acorn squash halves until tender, then fill them with a refreshing quinoa salad made with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and lemon vinaigrette. Return the stuffed squash halves to the air fryer and cook until warmed through. This dish is perfect for a light and nutritious lunch or dinner.

27. Butternut Squash Bread Pudding

Combine cubed butternut squash with bread cubes, eggs, milk, maple syrup, and spices to create a sweet and savory bread pudding. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and air fry until the pudding is set and golden brown. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert option.

Air fryers offer a convenient and healthier way to cook squash, allowing you to enjoy its natural sweetness and tender texture without excess oil. From crispy fries to stuffed squash, soups, salads, and desserts, the possibilities for squash air fryer recipes are endless. Experiment with different varieties of squash and flavor combinations to discover your favorite dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a satisfying meal, or a decadent dessert, these squash air fryer recipes are sure to impress your taste buds and elevate your cooking game.

Top 10 Global Flavors

The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying with the same delicious results. One versatile ingredient that shines in the air fryer is squash. From butternut to acorn, squash varieties are not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly versatile in the kitchen.

1. Butternut Squash Fries With Parmesan And Garlic

Ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into fry-shaped pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the butternut squash fries with olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

2. Acorn Squash Stuffed With Quinoa And Cranberries

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each acorn squash half with the quinoa mixture.
4. Place the stuffed squash halves in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender.
6. Serve warm as a side dish or light meal.

3. Spicy Roasted Delicata Squash Rings

Ingredients:

• 2 delicata squash, sliced into rings and seeds removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss delicata squash rings with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the squash rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Serve hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce for dipping.

4. Kabocha Squash Tempura

Ingredients:

• 1 kabocha squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into slices
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup ice-cold water
• 1 egg yolk
• Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Dipping sauce (soy sauce, mirin, and dashi)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, ice-cold water, egg yolk, and salt to make the tempura batter.
3. Dip kabocha squash slices into the batter, shaking off any excess.
4. Place the battered squash slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the tempura is golden and crispy.
6. Serve hot with dipping sauce on the side.

5. Maple Glazed Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients:

• 1 spaghetti squash, halved and seeds removed
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix maple syrup, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the cut sides of the spaghetti squash with the maple glaze.
4. Place the squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut side down.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender.
6. Use a fork to scrape the spaghetti-like strands of squash.
7. Serve warm as a sweet and savory side dish.

6. Zucchini And Yellow Squash Chips

Ingredients:

• 2 zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 2 yellow squash, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss zucchini and yellow squash slices with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the chips are golden and crispy.
5. Serve as a healthy alternative to potato chips with your favorite dip or salsa.

7. Stuffed Pattypan Squash With Feta And Spinach

Ingredients:

• 4 pattypan squash, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, chopped spinach, feta cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each pattypan squash half with the quinoa mixture.
4. Place the stuffed squash halves in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm as a nutritious and flavorful side dish.

8. Honey Roasted Butternut Squash

Ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix honey, olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the cubed butternut squash with the honey mixture until evenly coated.
4. Place the squash cubes in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the squash is caramelized and tender.
6. Serve hot as a sweet and savory side dish or topping for salads and grain bowls.

9. Cinnamon Sugar Acorn Squash Rings

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash, sliced into rings and seeds removed
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Brush both sides of the acorn squash rings with the butter mixture.
4. Place the squash rings in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes until the squash is tender and caramelized.
6. Serve warm sprinkled with additional cinnamon sugar if desired.

10. Turmeric Roasted Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients:

• 1 spaghetti squash, halved and seeds removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, turmeric powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the cut sides of the spaghetti squash with the turmeric mixture.
4. Place the squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut side down.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender.
6. Use a fork to scrape the spaghetti-like strands of squash.
7. Serve warm as a vibrant and flavorful side dish or base for stir-fries and curries.

My Favorite Air Fryer Recipe

Among the plethora of tantalizing squash air fryer recipes, one of my personal favorites is the Maple Glazed Spaghetti Squash. This recipe perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. The natural sweetness of the spaghetti squash pairs beautifully with the warm notes of maple syrup and cinnamon, while the butter adds richness and depth. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, this Maple Glazed Spaghetti Squash is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

Mastering the art of air fryer cooking requires a combination of technique and creativity. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve perfect results every time:

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like with traditional cooking methods, preheating your air fryer ensures that it reaches the optimal temperature for cooking, resulting in faster and more consistent results.

2. Use Oil Sparingly: While air frying requires less oil than traditional frying methods, a light coating of oil is still necessary to achieve crispy and golden results. Use a spray bottle or brush to evenly distribute oil over your ingredients before cooking.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To ensure proper air circulation and even cooking, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Arrange your ingredients in a single layer with some space in between to allow hot air to circulate evenly.

4. Shake or Flip Halfway Through: For even cooking and browning, shake the air fryer basket or flip your ingredients halfway through the cooking process. This ensures that all sides are exposed to the circulating hot air, resulting in crispier and more evenly cooked food.

5. Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings and flavor combinations. From herbs and spices to marinades and sauces, the air fryer provides endless opportunities to elevate the flavor of your dishes.

6. Adjust Cooking Times and Temperatures: Every air fryer is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the perfect cooking times and temperatures for your favorite recipes. Start with the recommended settings and adjust as needed based on your preferences and the specific characteristics of your air fryer.

7. Keep an Eye on Your Food: While air frying is generally hands-off, it’s important to keep an eye on your food to prevent overcooking or burning. Check on your ingredients periodically and adjust the cooking time or temperature as needed.

8. Clean Your Air Fryer Regularly: To ensure optimal performance and longevity, clean your air fryer regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Remove any food residue or grease buildup from the basket, tray, and interior components to prevent smoke and odors during cooking.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

In today’s fast-paced world, time-saving strategies are essential for busy cooks looking to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Here are some time-saving tips specifically tailored for air fryer cooking:

1. Prep Ingredients in Advance: Take advantage of your downtime to prep ingredients in advance. Wash, peel, and chop vegetables, marinate meats, and measure out seasonings and spices ahead of time, so you can quickly assemble your meals when it’s time to cook.

2. Batch Cook and Freeze: Maximize the efficiency of your air fryer by batch cooking and freezing meals ahead of time. Prepare large quantities of your favorite recipes, portion them into individual servings, and freeze them for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

3. Use Pre-Packaged Ingredients: While fresh is always best, pre-packaged ingredients such as pre-cut vegetables, frozen fruits, and pre-marinated meats can be lifesavers on busy days. Stock up on convenient staples to streamline meal prep and cooking.

4. Opt for One-Pot Meals: Simplify your mealtime routine by preparing one-pot meals that can be cooked entirely in the air fryer. From sheet pan dinners to stir-fries and casseroles, one-pot meals minimize prep and cleanup, making them perfect for hectic weeknights.

5. Utilize Air Fryer Accessories: Expand the capabilities of your air fryer with accessories such as baking pans, grill racks, and silicone molds. These accessories allow you to cook a wider variety of foods and prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, saving both time and energy.

6. Plan Your Meals: Take the guesswork out of mealtime by planning your meals in advance. Create a weekly meal plan, make a shopping list, and prep ingredients accordingly to streamline the cooking process and minimize stress.

7. Multitask Wisely: Make the most of your time in the kitchen by multitasking wisely. While your main dish is cooking in the air fryer, use the stovetop or oven to prepare side dishes or accompaniments, maximizing efficiency and reducing overall cooking time.

Conclusion

Squash air fryer recipes offer a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the versatile flavors of squash in a variety of culinary creations. From crispy fries and savory stuffed squash to sweet and savory glazed varieties, the possibilities are endless with the air fryer. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide and incorporating time-saving strategies into your cooking routine, you can elevate your air fryer game and enjoy flavorful meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, squash air fryer recipes are sure to impress your taste buds and delight your senses. So fire up your air fryer, unleash your creativity, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like never before!