My easy acorn squash air fryer recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a healthy side dish in little time. I love how the rich, nutty flavor pairs with virtually every dinner I make!
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My Easy Air Fryer Acorn Squash
I decided to try acorn squash in the air fryer after years of roasting it in my oven to see if it tasted as cozy and delicious. Acorn squash is one of my favorite seasonal ingredients, and I’m very particular about getting that yummy, sweet flavor.
The oven is great for tenderizing squash while bringing out the natural sweetness, but it can take up to an hour to cook. Turns out the air fryer cooks it much quicker.
I air fried the acorn squash, and as soon as I opened the basket, the delicious smell alone told me I was on the right track. I took a quick bite and knew this would be my new go-to recipe for it.
I called everyone to the dinner table, and my husband, Ben, was thrown off. He knew I was making acorn squash and assumed dinner would take much longer.
I told him I tried making the acorn squash in the air fryer instead, and it cooked a lot faster and he said, “Then why aren’t we making it this way every time?” Well, it will be from here on out!
And, if you love air fryer squash recipes, check out my recipes for air fryer butternut squash, air fryer squash, air fryer zucchini, and air fryer spaghetti squash!
What is Acorn Squash?
Acorn squash is one of my favorite winter squashes! It gets its name because it’s shaped like an acorn, so it’s easy to spot at the grocery store or farmer’s market.
I like that it’s not quite as sweet as butternut squash, so it’s more versatile. It also has this wonderful nutty flavor that my whole family loves!
Air Fry Acorn Squash Ingredients
- Acorn squash – I pick a smaller one so it can fit into my air fryer side by side
- Olive oil – I’ve also used canola oil and vegetable oil with success
- Salt and pepper
- Butter – optional, but I love the richness it brings to the squash
How to Cook Acorn Squash in the air Fryer
A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.
STEP ONE: Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F.
STEP TWO: Wash and dry the acorn squash, then use a sharp knife to cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon and discard.
STEP THREE: Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
STEP FOUR: Place the two halves of the acorn squash in the air fryer basket, cut side down. Air fry it for 15 minutes.Â
STEP FIVE: Carefully flip the squash, so the cut sides face up. Place 1 tablespoon of butter in each squash half, and then air fry at 400 degrees F for about 5-10 more minutes until the squash flesh is browned and fork tender. The total cooking time will be 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips and tricks for the Best Air Fryer Acorn Squash
- Preheat the air fryer before adding the acorn squash. Starting with a hot air fryer makes a big difference in how the squash cooks.
- Season the squash well with salt and pepper. I love acorn squash’s natural flavor, and simple seasonings really help bring it out!
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. I find that two halves fit perfectly in the air fryer basket, and I always cook in batches if I’m making more so the hot air has room to circulate.
- Add butter to the center after flipping the acorn squash halves. This step is optional, but I think it adds an irresistible richness to the squash!
- Increase the temperature from 350 degrees F to 400 degrees F after flipping the squash. This helps caramelize the tops for extra goodness.
- Use a fork to check for doneness before taking the acorn squash out of the air fryer. If a fork slides easily into the flesh, that’s how I know it’s done.
Acorn Squash Air Fryer Recipe Variations and substitutions
- If I’m craving something sweet, I’ll skip the black pepper seasoning and then brush the halves with maple syrup or honey after flipping them in the air fryer.
- For a warm, spicy note, I’ll sprinkle the acorn squash with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin pie spice. This really adds to the coziness.
- To add some fresh herb flavor, I love using rosemary or thyme. They go so well with the natural flavors of the squash.
- Adding garlic powder or smoked paprika is another really easy way to dial up the flavor.
- For a cheesy twist, I’ll sprinkle Parmesan or feta cheese over the acorn squash right when it comes out of the air fryer.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Squash
I love how this simple side dish goes so well with almost any meal! For a quick weeknight dinner, I’ll pair it with air fryer chicken legs or pork loin in the air fryer.
If I want something a little more elevated, I’ll serve my acorn squash with air fryer whole chicken, air fryer roast beef, or air fryer boneless pork chops.
Acorn Squash in the Air Fryer FAQs
How long to roast acorn squash in the air fryer
The final cooking time is going to depend on the size of the acorn squash, but I find that cooking for 20-25 minutes is usually perfect. I cook the squash for the first 15 minutes at 350 degrees F, then increase the temperature to 400 degrees F for the last 5-10 minutes.
I know the air fried acorn squash is ready when a fork easily pierces the flesh and the tops are golden brown.
Can I eat the skin of air fryer acorn squash?
Yes, the skin of acorn squash is edible! I love how it gets tender and caramelized in the air fryer, and I think it provides a nice contrast to the tender flesh.
My kids don’t like the skin, and thankfully, it’s super easy to separate it from the insides once the squash is cooked. So it’s completely a personal preference whether to eat the skin or peel it off.
Storage for leftover air fryer acorn squash
I let leftover acorn squash cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or covered bowl in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
I reheat leftover squash in the air fryer at 330 degrees F, preheated, for about 5 to 7 minutes until heated through.
How do I pick the best acorn squash at the store?
When picking an acorn squash at the store or farmer’s market, I look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a nice, firm exterior. It should be mainly green with a little orange or yellow spot. I avoid any squash that has soft spots since this can mean it’s overripe.
What are the health benefits of acorn squash?
Acorn squash is such a nutritious side! It’s low in calories but rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. Best of all, air fryer squash is so delicious that my kids barely even realize they’re eating something healthy!
I’m having a hard time cutting my acorn squash. What should I do?
If my raw acorn squash is a little too hard to slice easily, I just toss it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. This softens the squash enough that I can cut it in half with no problem.
More Air Fryer Side Dishes
- Air fryer asparagus
- Air fryer carrots
- Sliced potatoes in the air fryer
- Air fryer brussel sprouts
- Air fryer rice
- Air fryer beets
- Baked sweet potato in the air fryer
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Easy Acorn Squash in the Air Fryer
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 whole acorn squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter optional
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F. Wash and dry the acorn squash, then use a sharp knife to cut it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, then discard them.
- Brush the cut sides with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Place the two halves of the squash, cut side down, in the basket of the air fryer.Â
- Air fry for 15 minutes. Carefully flip the squash, so the cut sides face up. Place 1 tablespoon of butter in each squash half, then air fry at 400 degrees F for about 5-10 more minutes, until the squash flesh is browned and fork tender. Total cooking time will be 20-25 minutes.
Notes
- Preheat the air fryer before adding the acorn squash.
- Season the squash well with salt and pepper.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket.
- Increase the temperature from 350 degrees F to 400 degrees F after flipping the squash. This helps caramelize the tops for extra goodness.
- Use a fork to check for doneness before taking the acorn squash out of the air fryer. If a fork slides easily into the flesh, it’s done.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 330 degrees F, preheated, for about 5 to 7 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition
This nutrition information is based on the exact products I used in this recipe. Brands and sizes of products could alter exact nutrition and should always be calculated independently.
Can you do the Acorn Squash Air Fryer recipe using the Brown Sugar, Cinnamon and Butter with Butternut Squash in the Air Fryer, substituting the Olive Oil?
Yes! I’ve done this acorn squash recipe in the air fryer as well! You can use butter if you prefer still too!
Here is the recipe: https://www.everydayfamilycooking.com/brown-sugar-acorn-squash/
Made this today in my COSORI 5qt , soooooo good.
Will definitely be making this on rotation. Thank you!
Isn’t it delicious?! It’s my favorite way to make acorn squash!