As the cool autumn breeze hits my face, I yearn for the season’s comforting flavors. The sweet smell of roasted butternut squash reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen. There, she’d make her famous air fryer roasted maple butternut squash.
The tender, caramelized squash cubes with a rich maple glaze is a taste sensation I’ve sought ever since. It’s a mix of flavors that brings back memories of my grandma’s cooking.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a delicious and nutritious air fryer recipe for roasted maple butternut squash
- Learn how to quickly and easily prepare this versatile fall side dish
- Explore various flavor variations and serving suggestions to make the most of this recipe
- Enjoy the benefits of air frying, including faster cooking times and healthier results
- Meal prep and store this recipe for convenient and flavorful weeknight dinners
What Is Air Fryer Roasted Maple Butternut Squash?
Air fryer roasted maple butternut squash is a tasty and healthy side dish. It’s perfect for fall with its sweet and savory flavors. Cubes of butternut squash are tossed in a maple glaze and roasted in the air fryer.
A Delicious and Nutritious Side Dish
Butternut squash is packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Air frying it with maple syrup makes it caramelized and delicious. This method cooks the squash quickly and evenly, great for busy days or special occasions.
Perfect for Fall Flavors and Thanksgiving
The mix of butternut squash and maple syrup is a classic fall taste. It’s a great side dish for Thanksgiving, with roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. The squash’s vibrant orange color and sweet aroma will make everyone want to try it.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 116 kcal |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 4g |
Benefits of Air Frying Butternut Squash
Cooking butternut squash in an air fryer is quick and easy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals. You get tender, flavorful squash cubes in less time than roasting in the oven.
The air fryer’s hot air circulates for a great texture and caramelized edges. You don’t have to heat up your whole kitchen.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Preparing butternut squash in the air fryer is simple. Follow a few steps and you’ll have a tasty side dish fast. It cooks in about 13 minutes, great for when you’re in a hurry.
Versatile and Flavorful
Air-fried butternut squash is versatile and delicious. It’s perfect for main dishes, salads, and bowls. The air fryer cooks the squash evenly, making it tender and flavorful.
You can season it many ways, from sweet maple glaze to savory spices. The air fryer makes it easy to get great flavors with little effort.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Quick and Easy Preparation | Air frying butternut squash takes only 13 minutes, compared to 35-40 minutes in the oven. |
| Versatile and Flavorful | The air fryer produces tender, flavorful squash cubes that can be seasoned in a variety of ways. |
| Healthy and Nutritious | Butternut squash is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to your meals. |
| Energy-Efficient Cooking | Using an air fryer requires less energy than a conventional oven, making it a more eco-friendly choice. |
“The air fryer’s rapid cooking time and ability to evenly cook the squash cubes make it a game-changer for busy home cooks.”
How to Cut and Cube Butternut Squash
Preparing butternut squash for your air fryer recipes is easy. It just takes a few steps. Whether you’re making air fryer butternut squash or other squash-based dishes, learning how to cut and cube it is key. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Start by using a sharp knife to trim off the ends of the butternut squash. This will create a flat surface to work with.
- Using a vegetable peeler, carefully peel the outer skin of the squash until you reach the bright orange flesh.
- Cut the squash in half lengthwise, then use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center.
- Slice the squash halves into 1-inch thick pieces, then stack the slices and make both lengthwise and crosswise cuts to create evenly-sized cubes.
This simple method for how to cut butternut squash and how to cube butternut squash ensures even cooking. By properly preparing butternut squash, you’ll enjoy delicious results in all your squash-based dishes.
| Cutting Butternut Squash | Nutrition Facts (per 1 cup) |
|---|---|
|
|
“Cutting and cubing butternut squash is a simple task that yields perfectly even pieces for air frying or roasting.”
recipe air fryer squash maple glaze
Make your autumn side dishes special with this air fryer squash with maple glaze recipe. It mixes butternut squash’s natural sweetness with maple syrup’s rich flavors. This dish is easy to make and great for fall meals and Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with the olive or avocado oil, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until the squash cubes are evenly coated.
3. Arrange the seasoned air fryer butternut squash in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, then remove the basket and drizzle the maple syrup over the squash, gently tossing to coat.
4. Return the basket to the air fryer and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the maple roasted butternut squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Serve the air fryer squash with maple glaze hot as a delicious and nutritious side dish, perfect for easy side dishes and fall recipes.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Butternut Squash
To get delicious air fryer butternut squash, follow a few key tips. First, cut the squash into even cubes. This ensures it cooks evenly. You might need to cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can mess up the cooking.
Another important step is to toss the squash cubes halfway through cooking. This helps them brown evenly and become tender. Don’t overcook it, as it can become too soft or dry. Cooking it for 14 to 16 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal.
Preheating your air fryer is also crucial. For frozen squash, use 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 18 minutes. Turn the cubes every 5 minutes for even cooking. To reheat leftover squash, use 330 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Uniform Cube Size | Cut the butternut squash into evenly-sized cubes for consistent cooking. |
| Avoid Overcrowding | Cook the squash in batches to prevent the air fryer basket from becoming overcrowded. |
| Toss Halfway | Toss the squash cubes halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning. |
| Monitor Cooking Time | Be mindful of the recommended cooking time to avoid overcooking and drying out the squash. |
| Preheat the Air Fryer | Ensure the air fryer is preheated to the appropriate temperature for the best results. |
By following these tips, you’ll get perfect air-fried butternut squash every time. Enjoy its delicious, caramelized flavor and tender texture.
Variations and Substitutions
The air fryer roasted maple butternut squash is very versatile. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper or chili powder can give it a nice kick. Or, you can keep it simple with salt, pepper, and maple glaze.
Feel free to try different sweeteners like honey or brown sugar instead of maple syrup. These can change the flavor to what you like best.
Alternative Sweeteners and Vegetables
You can use other winter squash types like acorn or delicata squash instead of butternut. The air fryer is great for cooking many types of squash. It lets you try different flavors and mixes.
| Squash Variety | Flavor Profile | Nutritional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Butternut Squash | Sweet, nutty, and creamy | High in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants |
| Acorn Squash | Slightly sweet, with a firm, dense texture | Rich in vitamins C and B6, potassium, and manganese |
| Delicata Squash | Sweet, with a delicate, creamy texture | Low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins A and C |
No matter the squash you pick, the air fryer makes it sweet and caramelized. Try different squash and seasonings to find your favorite air fryer squash variations and air fryer butternut squash recipes.
Serving Suggestions
The air fryer roasted maple butternut squash is a versatile side dish. It pairs well with many main courses. Its sweet and savory flavors go great with chicken, turkey, or beef.
It’s perfect for fall-inspired meals and holiday spreads. You can also add the air fryer butternut squash cubes to salads and bowls. This makes them nutritious and flavorful.
Main Dish Pairings
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Grilled steak or pork chops
- Baked salmon or other fish
- Vegetarian or vegan entrées like lentil stew or quinoa-stuffed portobello mushrooms
Salads and Bowls
- Top a mixed green salad with the air fryer butternut squash cubes, toasted pecans, and a balsamic vinaigrette
- Incorporate the roasted maple squash into a quinoa or farro bowl, along with chickpeas, spinach, and a drizzle of tahini dressing
- Add the air fryer squash to a fall-inspired grain bowl with wild rice, kale, and pomegranate seeds
The air fryer butternut squash is versatile for healthy meals in fall and winter. Try different combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy it.
Meal Prep and Storage
Air fryer roasted maple butternut squash is great for meal prep. You can cook a big batch and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat it in the air fryer, oven, or microwave when you’re ready. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep lunches.
Butternut squash stays tender and tasty even after reheating. This is because air frying keeps its texture well. So, you can enjoy the maple glaze and squash’s flavor any time with just a few minutes of reheating.
How to Store Air Fried Squash
- Refrigerate cooked air fryer butternut squash in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, simply place the squash in the air fryer at 375°F for 4-6 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cooked squash in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Using the air fryer makes meal prep easy. It also helps butternut squash keep well in storage. So, you can enjoy fall flavors all year by keeping air fryer butternut squash on hand.
| Meal Prep Tip | Storage Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerate cooked squash | Up to 4 days |
| Freeze cooked squash | Up to 2 months |
“Air frying is a game-changer for meal prep – it makes butternut squash so easy to cook and store for later enjoyment.”
Nutrition Information
Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, and fiber. When air-fried with a maple glaze, it keeps these nutrients. It also adds a natural sweetness.
One serving of air-fried maple butternut squash nutrition has complex carbs. This makes it a filling and healthy side dish. The air fryer method preserves vitamins and minerals without extra oil or butter.
| Nutrition Facts | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 134 kcal |
| Fat | 4g (6%) |
| Saturated Fat | 2g (13%) |
| Cholesterol | 5mg (2%) |
| Sodium | 26mg (1%) |
| Potassium | 671mg (19%) |
| Carbohydrates | 26g (9%) |
| Fiber | 4g (17%) |
| Sugar | 7g (8%) |
| Protein | 2g (4%) |
| Vitamin A | 19994IU (400%) |
| Vitamin C | 39mg (47%) |
| Calcium | 95mg (10%) |
| Iron | 1mg (6%) |
The best time to get ripe acorn squash in the USA is from early October to December. It can last 1-2 months in a cool, dark, dry place. Air frying butternut squash takes 15 minutes at 480°F/249°C. Lowering the heat to 400°F/205°C takes 20-25 minutes.
Acorn squash is great in soups, casseroles, pasta, salads, and as a mash. It’s a fantastic side dish that goes well with grains and other veggies. It’s also a hit on holiday tables.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 4-6 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. Frozen leftovers can last up to 2 months.
“The air fryer acorn squash recipe has a high rating of 5 stars based on 102 votes.”
Conclusion
The best recipe for air fryer squash with maple glaze is a tasty and healthy side dish. It perfectly captures the essence of fall flavors. The tender, caramelized squash and the sweetness of maple syrup make it a standout dish.
This air fryer creation is easy to make and can make any meal special. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a big Thanksgiving feast. The air fryer method saves time, making it a great choice for busy families.
With the air fryer, you can customize the squash dish to your liking. You can add your favorite seasonings and ingredients. This makes it a crowd-pleaser for everyone.
If you want to add more veggies to your diet or just enjoy a tasty side dish, try this recipe. It’s easy, healthy, and delicious. So, why not give it a try and enjoy this fall favorite?
PrintAir Fryer Squash Maple Glaze Recipe
Sweet and savory air-fried squash glazed with pure maple syrup. A quick, healthy side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of squash.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Additional Time: 0 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: VegetarianDiet
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pecans for topping
Instructions
- Cut squash into 1-inch cubes
- Toss with oil and seasonings
- Air fry at 375°F for 10 minutes
- Drizzle maple syrup
- Cook 5 more minutes
- Shake basket halfway through
- Top with pecans if desired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 123
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 533
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 0
FAQ
What is air fryer roasted maple butternut squash?
Air fryer roasted maple butternut squash is a tasty side dish. It’s sweet, savory, and packed with nutrition. It’s perfect for fall and can be added to many dishes.
This recipe is gluten-free and vegan. It’s a healthy option for any meal.
What are the benefits of cooking butternut squash in an air fryer?
Cooking butternut squash in an air fryer is quick and easy. It doesn’t heat up the whole kitchen. The air fryer makes tender, flavorful squash cubes fast.
This method is great for busy nights or holiday meals. Air-fried butternut squash can be used in many dishes.
How do you cut and cube a butternut squash?
Cutting and cubing a butternut squash is easy. First, cut off the ends with a sharp knife. Then, peel the squash with a vegetable peeler.
After peeling, cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Slice the halves into 1-inch thick pieces. Stack the slices and cut them into cubes. This ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
What are the key tips for making perfect air fryer butternut squash?
For perfect air fryer butternut squash, follow these tips. Cut the squash into even cubes for uniform cooking. You might need to cook in batches, depending on your air fryer’s size.
Don’t overcrowd the basket to avoid uneven cooking. Toss the squash halfway through cooking for even browning. Avoid overcooking to keep the squash tender and flavorful.
How can I customize air fryer roasted maple butternut squash?
You can customize air fryer roasted maple butternut squash in many ways. For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a simpler flavor, use just salt, pepper, and maple glaze.
Try substituting honey or brown sugar for maple syrup if you prefer. You can also use other winter squash varieties like acorn or delicata. The air fryer method allows for experimenting with different flavors.
What are the nutritional benefits of air fryer roasted maple butternut squash?
Butternut squash is very nutritious. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, and fiber. The air fryer version with maple glaze keeps these nutrients while adding sweetness.
One serving of this dish provides complex carbohydrates, making it filling. The air fryer method preserves vitamins and minerals without using a lot of oil or butter. This makes it a healthy choice.
3 thoughts on “Air Fryer Squash Maple Glaze Recipe”