Air Fryer Delicata Squash
Indulge in tender Air Fryer Delicata Squash with this foolproof recipe. Elevate your cooking game with this easy fall side dish! It is excellent on its own, cut up and added to salads, or added to other savory dishes like soups and stews.
This simple squash recipe really is a game-changer. It’s flavorful, it’s fast, and it’s super fun to eat. I make this a lot with fall and early winter meals because it’s hearty and healthy, and an easy side dish option. It is so much quicker to air fry than oven roast winter squash.
I love all types of winter squash like acorn squash, butternut squash, and honey nut squash (a cousin of butternut), but delicata may be my favorite. It is also known as peanut squash, sweet potato squash, or Bohemian squash. Just look for the beautiful yellow color with green stripes for this low carb air fryer recipe.
Make sure to try my Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash, Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast, as well as my Keto Yellow Squash Casserole recipe as well!
Ingredients
Delicata Squash – Delicata is naturally sweet with a thin layer of “skin” that is easily edible when cooked. No peeling required! I cut mine into slices or rings, but it’s also great cut into fries!
You can play around with the recipe and cut the slices of squash a different thickness to see what you like best, but I find that 1-1.5 inches thick is my sweet spot.
How to Air Fry Delicata Squash
1️⃣ Prep the Squash
Cut the squash into half-moons, slices, or rings and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds. Season as desired.
2️⃣ Air Fry Until Tender
Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Put the cut-up squash slices in the air fryer at 400 degrees for 10 minutes. You may need to adjust the cooking time for other air fryers. I have an Instant Pot with an air fryer lid. Just cook until the squash is fork-tender.
👉 Tip: You do not need to air fry in a single layer. You can just alternate the rings as shown in this photo.
Variations
- Oils – I didn’t even drizzle my squash with avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil. I just put them in plain and they still got this beautiful golden color and crispy texture. But feel free to drizzle with oil and sprinkle with seasonings if you’d like.
- Seasonings -Sprinkle with seasonings if you’d like. Garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage are nice savory choices. Or use a blend of herbs like Italian seasoning. Alternatively, you can turn to sweeter spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Sauces – Squash is naturally sweet but a little balsamic glaze or sugar free maple syrup is amazing brushed over it for the last minute or so of cooking for extra flavor.
- Toppings – It is also possible to add toppings after cooking. Fresh Parmesan cheese or fresh cilantro are nice choices on air-fried delicata squash.
Common Questions
When to pick delicata squash?
Delicata squash is typically ready to be picked when it has turned a deep yellow or orange color. The skin should be firm and the rind should be hard. It is important not to wait too long to harvest delicata squash, as overripe squash may have a tough texture and less flavor.
Generally, delicata squash can be harvested between 80-100 days after planting, depending on the specific variety and growing conditions. To determine if it is ready for picking, gently press your thumb against the skin – if it leaves an indentation, the squash is not yet ripe. However, if the skin remains firm and does not give way under pressure, it is time to harvest and enjoy this delicious winter vegetable!
How to tell when delicata squash is ripe?
There are a few key indicators to look for when determining if delicata squash is ripe.
Firstly, check the color of the skin. A ripe delicata squash will have a creamy yellow or orange skin with dark green stripes. The skin should also be firm and smooth, without any soft spots or blemishes.
Secondly, gently tap on the squash with your finger. If it makes a hollow sound, this is a good sign that it is ripe. Lastly, examine the stem of the squash. A fully ripened delicata squash will have a dry and shriveled stem. By considering these factors, you can confidently determine when your delicata squash is ready to be harvested and enjoyed!
How do you reheat air fryer delicata squash?
You have a couple of options. You can easily reheat cooked winter squash in the microwave or put it back in the air fryer low and slow. It’s up to you on what you prefer.
What toppings do you add to cooked squash?
I’m a fan of a bit of butter and a sugar free brown sweetener on this air fryer delicata squash recipe but you can easily do a tad bit of cinnamon as well. Since this squash already has a natural sweetness to it, you can easily add whatever topping you think you’ll like best. Ground black pepper and sea salt is nice for a savory option.
Can you eat the skin of Delicata squash?
You bet! Just clean and wash the outer skin off well and then you can chow down and enjoy it! It’s really good and not chewy or hard at all.
If you want to peel the squash you totally can as well but it really does add a great benefit of holding the squash in place as it cooks. Plus, it just looks really cool, too!
How long will air fryer squash keep in the fridge?
Once it’s cooked in the air fryer, eating it within 2-3 days is best. Just keep it stored in an airtight container until you’re ready for leftovers.
Can you freeze cooked Delicata squash?
You can. Once you cook it, just store it in an airtight freezer bag until you’re ready to eat it later. It might change the texture a bit during the freezing process if it gets broken up but it shouldn’t change the taste at all.
If it does turn mushy during freezing, just add to a veggie soup instead!
What is a delicata squash substitute?
If you’re unable to find delicata squash in your local grocery store, fear not! There are several delicious substitutes that can be used in its place. Acorn squash is a great alternative, with its similar flavor profile and tender texture.
Butternut squash can also be used as a substitute, offering a rich and sweet taste. Another option is kabocha squash, which has a creamy texture and slightly nutty flavor. No matter which substitute you choose, it will surely add a delightful touch to any recipe calling for delicata squash.
Check out how great this looked served with my Smoked Pork Loin and Keto Sausage Stuffing. And try my Air Fryer Pork Belly next!
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Air Fryer Delicata Squash
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 delicata squash cut into 1 – 1.5-inch rings, seeds removed
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Cook for 10 minutes or until tender and golden.
- Season as desired.
Nutrition
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Originally Published November 1, 2021. Revised and Republished March 31, 2026.
Such a genius idea to roast delicata in the air fryer! An awesome side dish.
This is the perfect Fall recipe! With all your suggestions for sauces and spices, I will be making these often this season! Delish!