Crispy Air Fryer Delicata Squash
Fall just got a whole lot crispier! This air fryer delicata squash transforms ordinary vegetables into golden, caramelized perfection in just 15 minutes. Did you know delicata squash is actually edible skin and all?
No peeling required makes this the easiest fall side dish ever. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Just like our popular Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, this recipe proves that vegetables can be absolutely irresistible when cooked right. Get ready to fall in love with fall flavors!
Table of Contents
What is Air Fryer Delicata Squash?
Ever wondered why they call it “delicata” squash? The name literally means “delicate” in Italian, referring to its thin, tender skin that’s completely edible. No wrestling with tough peels like butternut squash here!
This cream-colored beauty with green stripes cooks up sweet and nutty. As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this crispy creation definitely delivers. Ready to give this elegant autumn vegetable a try in your air fryer?
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Delicata Squash
Perfect Crispy Texture Every Time
The air fryer works absolute magic on delicata squash. Those high-speed fans create the perfect crispy edges while keeping the inside tender and sweet. You’ll get that satisfying crunch without any oil splatter or oven preheating. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully, creating those golden-brown edges that make your mouth water.
Budget-Friendly Fall Favorite
Making air fryer delicata squash at home costs a fraction of restaurant prices. One medium squash feeds 4-6 people as a side dish for under $3. Compare that to ordering roasted vegetables at your favorite restaurant! Plus, you control the seasonings and can customize flavors to your family’s taste preferences.
Endless Flavor Possibilities
From simple salt and pepper to exotic spice blends, this versatile vegetable takes on any flavor profile. Try cinnamon and maple for a sweet twist, or go savory with garlic powder and herbs. The neutral base pairs perfectly with everything from parmesan cheese to balsamic glaze. Similar to our Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries, the possibilities are endless! Why not start experimenting with this foolproof recipe today?
How to Make Air Fryer Delicata Squash
Quick Overview
This recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in just 15 minutes. The air fryer creates perfectly crispy edges while maintaining a tender, sweet interior. The best part? Zero oil required thanks to the squash’s natural moisture content.
Total Time: 20 minutes Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes Serves: 4-6 people
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Delicata Squash
You’ll need just a few simple ingredients to create this delicious side dish:
- 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Optional: 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Squash
Wash the delicata squash thoroughly under cold water. Pat completely dry with paper towels. Cut each squash in half lengthwise, then scoop out all seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon. The cavity should be completely clean.
Step 2: Slice into Half-Moons
Cut each squash half into 1/2-inch thick half-moon slices. Keep slices uniform for even cooking. Don’t worry about peeling – the skin becomes perfectly tender and adds beautiful color.
Step 3: Season the Squash
Place sliced squash in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using. Toss again until all pieces are well-seasoned.
Step 4: Arrange in Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes. Arrange seasoned squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd – work in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Squash should be golden brown and crispy on the edges. Test doneness by piercing with a fork – it should go through easily.
Step 6: Add Final Touches
Remove from air fryer and sprinkle with parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the best texture and flavor.
What to Serve Air Fryer Delicata Squash With
This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with countless main courses. Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a complete fall dinner. The sweet, nutty flavors complement pork chops and beef roasts perfectly.
For vegetarian meals, pair with quinoa pilaf or wild rice stuffing. The crispy texture adds wonderful contrast to creamy dishes like risotto or mashed potatoes.
Try it with our Honey Garlic Salmon for a balanced, healthy dinner. The caramelized edges also make it perfect for holiday gatherings alongside traditional sides.
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Delicata Squash
Choose the Right Squash
Look for delicata squash that feels heavy for its size with unblemished skin. The stripes should be dark green and the background cream-colored. Avoid any with soft spots or wrinkled skin.
Don’t Skip the Preheating
Preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking from the start. Those first few minutes create the initial sear that leads to perfect caramelization.
Keep Slices Uniform
Cutting consistent 1/2-inch slices ensures everything cooks evenly. Thicker pieces may need extra time, while thinner slices can burn quickly.
Avoid Overcrowding
Give each piece space to breathe. Overcrowding creates steam instead of crispy edges. Cook in batches if needed for best results.
Flip for Even Browning
Flipping halfway through ensures both sides get golden and crispy. Use tongs to gently turn each piece without breaking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store leftover air fryer delicata squash in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Place in an airtight container once completely cooled. The squash will lose some crispiness but still tastes delicious.
For reheating, use your air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it makes the squash soggy.
You can freeze cooked squash for up to 3 months, though the texture won’t be quite as crispy after thawing. Freeze in freezer-safe bags with air removed.
For meal prep, slice and season the raw squash up to 2 days ahead. Store in the refrigerator and cook when ready to serve for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to peel delicata squash?
No! The skin becomes tender and edible when cooked. Just wash thoroughly and you’re ready to slice and cook.
Can I use frozen delicata squash?
Fresh squash works best for optimal texture and flavor. Frozen squash tends to become mushy and won’t crisp up properly in the air fryer.
What temperature should I use?
375°F is perfect for achieving crispy edges without burning. Higher temperatures may brown too quickly before the inside cooks through.
How do I know when it’s done?
The squash should be golden brown on the edges and easily pierced with a fork. The flesh should be tender but not mushy.
Can I make this oil-free?
Yes! The natural moisture in delicata squash allows it to cook without oil. Just season with spices and cook as directed.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 65 |
| Total Fat | 2.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 390mg |
| Total Carbs | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
| Potassium | 450mg |
Nutrition facts are approximate and based on 1/6 of the recipe
This crispy air fryer delicata squash proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory, plus that irresistible crispy exterior, it’s destined to become your new favorite fall side dish. The best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes with minimal cleanup required. Give this recipe a try and watch your family fall in love with this elegant autumn vegetable!
