Air Fryer Acorn Squash
Air Fryer Acorn Squash is like a crispy and sweet flavor bomb – it's all the goodness of acorn squash with that irresistible crunchy twist from the air fryer. It's the perfect way to enjoy the savory sweetness of acorn squash with a delightful crispy touch, thanks to the air fryer and cooks in only 25 minutes.
If you're looking for a simple and delicious way to enjoy this fall favorite, look no further. Air frying takes the classic acorn squash to a whole new level by giving it a delightful crispy texture while preserving its natural sweetness. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create this mouthwatering side dish that's not only flavorful but also a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. Get ready to savor the perfect blend of tender, caramelized goodness and satisfying crunch with air fryer acorn squash.
This acorn squash in the air fryer was inspired by my Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash and Air Fryer Butternut Squash, and pairs well with Instant Pot Honey Balsamic Pork Tenderloin.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy - this Air Fryer Acorn Squash recipe requires only four ingredients (one is salt!) and very few steps.
- Quick - cooking acorn squash in the air fryer is much faster than in the oven (just like Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries!) and doesn't require any preheating time.
- Healthy - acorn squash is naturally sweet, lower in calories (roughly 80 calories in 1 cup) and is rich in fiber, antioxidants, Vitamin C, and vitamin A.
- Versatile - acorn squash can be used in many different ways. I love it as this recipe is written, which is with butter and brown sugar, but it can also be savory topped with butter and Parmesan cheese. You can also use it instead of butternut squash in my Apple Butternut Squash Soup or Roasted Tomato and Butternut Squash Soup.
Ingredients
This recipe for Air Fryer Acorn Squash uses very few ingredients which allows the natural sweetness and flavor of the acorn squash to shine!
- Acorn Squash - Acorn squash is like the sweet, nutty superstar of winter squashes, with its cool ridged appearance and delicious flavor.
- Butter - melted butter creates a super tender squash and lends delicious flavor.
- Brown Sugar - brown sugar adds sweetness, warmth, and depth to this savory sweet recipe.
- Salt - just a dash of salt to bring out flavors.
See recipe card for exact quantities.
Squash Tips and Variations
- Brown Sugar - instead of brown sugar you can use maple syrup, which is a more natural sweetener.
- Savory - to make this recipe more savory, omit the brown sugar and add a sprinkle of garlic powder instead. Top with some Parmesan cheese at the end.
- Add Spices - add some ground cinnamon and nutmeg to give this acorn squash a warm flavor with spices.
- Microwave - if the squash seems too difficult to cut, poke a few holes in it with a fork and then microwave for 2 minutes.
Instructions
Place acorn squash in the air fryer and brush with olive oil.
Cook at 350 degrees for 15 minutes, then add the butter and brown sugar. Cook another 10 minutes.
Serve and enjoy! This acorn squash in the air fryer could not be easier!
Recipe FAQs
Yes! Acorn squash has approximately 80 calories per cup and is a good source of fiber, Vitamin C and Vitamin A. It is also naturally sweet.
It is very convenient to make this recipe in an air fryer, but you can certainly bake acorn squash, too. Simply preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Follow the recipe instructions for prep, and then bake for 45 minutes. Add the butter and brown sugar and bake an additional 10-15 minutes.
No, I typically do not eat the peel of acorn squash. It is edible, but it is quite tough, so I do not.
Other Fall Recipes...
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Air Fryer Acorn Squash
Ingredients
- 1 acorn squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 4 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
- Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
- Brush the halves with olive oil
- Place the halves in the air fryer.
- Cook for 15 minutes at 375 degrees F.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 2 tablespoon brown sugar to each half and cook another 10 minutes.
- Serve!
