Delicata Squash in the Air Fryer
If you’re looking for the fastest and easiest way to cook delicata squash, the air fryer is it. In just 15 minutes and with only three simple ingredients, you’ll have tender, golden squash that’s slightly sweet with crisp caramelized edges. Even better, there’s no peeling required, just slice, season, and cook.
I’ve been making delicata squash for years and once I tested it in the air fryer, it quickly became my go-to method. As a recipe developer who focuses on quick, approachable meals, I love how this simple technique fits perfectly into busy weeknights. It’s fast, reliable, and turns a fall favorite into a versatile side dish you’ll want to make again and again.
If you love this recipe, keep your air fryer out and try some of my other easy veggie favorites. You’ll also enjoy my Air Fryer Butternut Squash, Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash, and Air Fryer Frozen Brussel Sprouts. All simple, delicious ways to get more vegetables on your plate with minimal effort.
How to cook delicata squash in the air fryer
Wash and dry the squash. Cut the top and bottom off to create a flat bottom and top. Stand the delicata up and slice through the squash (this is why having a flat bottom is nice). Use a spoon to scoop out all the seeds. Slice the squash into about 1/4 inch half moon pieces. Add delicata squash to the air fryer basket. Spray with olive oil spray and salt and shake to distribute. Turn air fryer on to 375F for 14 minutes. After 7 minutes, pause the air fryer and shake well. Do this again with 3 minutes left. After 14 minutes, check to see if most of the squash are cooked. There should be browning on the edges and have some brown spots where the flesh has caramelized. An additional 2 minutes may be needed depending on how full the basket is.
Tips for success
- Don’t be afraid to shake the basket! The fuller the basket, the more often it needs to be shaken to ensure all the pieces are exposed to the heat.
- Look for squash with firm skin, no blemishes or bruises, and that feels heavy for its size. When you gently press the skin, it should be firm, not soft.
- You can keep delicata squash in a cool, dark spot for about 10–14 days. They’re easy to find in many grocery stores during the fall, so stock up while they’re in season!
Air Fryer Delicata Squash Recipe – Ready in 15 Minutes
Ingredients
- 1 delicata squash
- 1/2 tsp. sea salt
- olive oil spray
Instructions
- Start by washing the delicata squash (since you will be eating the skin).
- Cut the top and bottom from the squash at the base and stem.
- Stand the squash up on the flat bottom, cut it down from top to bottom creating 2 halves (this will make the half moon shaped fries). Scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
- Cut the squash into 1/4 inch thick fries.
- Add the delicata squash to the air fryer basket. Spray with olive oil spray and sprinkle with salt.
- Turn the air fryer on 375F for 14 minutes.
- After 7 minutes of cooking, pause the air fryer and shake the basket well. Start cooking again.
- With about 3 minute left of cooking, pause the air fryer and shake the basket one more time.
- After cooking for 14 minutes, check to see if the squash are cooked to your liking. You may need to cook them 2 more minutes depending on how full the air fryer basket was.
Equipment
Recipe Notes
Recipe tips:
- Cut the squash the same thickness. Try to be consistent with how thick you cut the fries so they cook evenly.
- Only cook one squash at a time. The more you fill up in the basket, the longer they will have to cook.
- Make squash rings instead of half moon shapes. Instead of cutting the squash in half, cut the squash in 1/4 inch thick rings, then scoop the seeds out of each ring with a spoon.
Storage:
Store in a air tight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.Nutrition Information
Tasty seasoning ideas
I love to season delicata squash with just a sprinkle of salt. However, sometimes I like to really pack on the flavor and add some seasoning!
How to season: Toss the sliced squash in a large bowl with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil and your choice of the following spice blends. Mix well before adding to the air fryer basket.
- Sweet: ½ teaspoon cinnamon and pinch of nutmeg
- Taco: ½ teaspoon chili powder + ½ teaspoon salt + ¼ teaspoon cumin. Optional pinch of cayenne pepper
- Curry: ½ teaspoon curry powder + ½ teaspoon salt + pinch of cinnamon for sweetness
- Garam Masala: ½ teaspoon garam masala + ½. teaspoon salt + ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- Italian: ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning + ½ teaspoon garlic powder + ½ teaspoon salt
- Smoky: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika + ½ teaspoon cumin + ½ teaspoon salt + pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
Can you cook delicata squash in the oven
Yes. Although I love the convenience and ease of cooking delicata squash in the air fryer, there are still times I make it in the oven. If I am planning to cook multiple squash at once, the oven can be more practical.
- Step 1: Slice the squash.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 450F. Place the squash on a baking sheet sprayed with non-stick spray (like avocado oil or olive oil).
- Step 3: Bake at 450F for 20 minutes. Take out of the oven, flip each squash and return to the oven for 5 more minutes.
What a delicious looking option for squash! Can’t wait to try it!