As the cooler weather rolls in, there’s nothing quite like the cozy comfort of roasted vegetables to warm your soul. And if you’re looking for a fall-inspired dish that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Air Fryer Acorn Squash recipe! Using the air fryer gives this humble vegetable a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. It’s the perfect side dish to complement any meal, and it’s so simple to make.
If you’ve never cooked acorn squash before, it might seem like a bit of a mystery, but I promise you, it’s one of the easiest and most satisfying vegetables to prepare. The air fryer does most of the work, leaving you with a dish that has a perfect balance of savory and sweet. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a fantastic side dish ready in no time. Let’s get started!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Acorn Squash: Acorn squash is a winter squash variety that has a sweet, nutty flavor and a slightly textured skin. It’s the star of this recipe, and when cooked in the air fryer, it becomes wonderfully tender on the inside with a lightly crispy outside.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to crisp up the skin of the squash while adding richness and flavor. A light drizzle is all you need for the perfect texture without making the squash greasy.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, making it the perfect complement to its savory flavors. It helps caramelize the flesh of the squash during cooking, creating a sweet and savory contrast.
Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a classic fall spice that pairs wonderfully with acorn squash. It adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile, bringing the cozy fall flavors we all crave.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. It’s essential for bringing all the ingredients together and making the squash truly shine.
Ingredients List
- 1 acorn squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Air Fryer Acorn Squash
Step 1: Prepare the Squash
Start by cutting the acorn squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds from the center using a spoon. You can discard the seeds, or if you’re feeling adventurous, roast them for a crunchy snack! Once the squash is cleaned, place it flesh-side up on a cutting board.
Step 2: Season the Squash
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the cut sides of the squash. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt over the flesh of the squash. Gently rub the spices and oil into the squash to ensure an even coating.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the squash cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy texture.
Step 4: Air Fry the Squash
Place the squash halves into the air fryer basket, cut side up. Air fry at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the squash, so keep an eye on it and check for doneness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the squash is cooked, remove it from the air fryer. You can serve it as is, or scoop out the tender flesh and mash it for a different texture. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use Fresh Acorn Squash: Fresh, ripe acorn squash will give the best flavor. Look for squash with a firm, unblemished skin and a dull finish, as this indicates ripeness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: If you’re making multiple batches, make sure the squash halves have enough space in the air fryer to cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches for the best results.
- Try Different Spices: While cinnamon is a classic fall choice, you can experiment with other spices such as nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for a unique twist on this recipe.
- Add a Drizzle of Honey: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some honey over the squash right before serving. It pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and brown sugar.
- Serve as a Side Dish or Main: This air fryer acorn squash makes a fantastic side dish for roasted meats, or you can enjoy it as a main course with a simple salad for a light meal.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without brown sugar?
Yes! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can omit the brown sugar and just use a little bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, or simply enjoy the savory flavors of the squash.
Can I cook other types of squash in the air fryer?
Absolutely! This recipe works for other winter squashes like butternut squash or delicata squash. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size of the squash.
Do I need to peel the squash?
Nope! The skin of the acorn squash becomes tender when cooked, so there’s no need to peel it. Simply scoop out the seeds, season, and air fry!
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover acorn squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or air fryer for a quick snack or meal.
Enjoy this simple, flavorful, and fall-inspired Air Fryer Acorn Squash recipe—it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen this season!