This Air Fryer Delicata Squash recipe creates perfectly crispy yet tender slices with a savory Parmesan and garlic coating. Quick, easy, and bursting with fall flavor, it’s a delicious side dish or snack that’s ready in under 15 minutes!
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Easy Air Fryer Delicata Squash Recipe
With so many types of squash available in the fall and winter months it can be overwhelming knowing which one to choose sometimes! After a lot of taste testing I have declared Delicata Squash my favorite. Not only is delicata squash straight up delicious it is also perhaps the easy of the squashes to prepare. Delicata squashes are a small squash that have a cylinder shape with yellow skin and green stripes. With it’s thin edible skin and smaller size you can have delicata squash ready to eat in 15 minutes whereas other squash due to their size and structure take much longer to skin, cut, and roast.
Like most veggies I discovered that delicata is absolute delicious and easy to make in the air fryer. Just like my Air Fryer Home Fries, Air Fryer Broccoli, or Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts you will have a perfect veggie side dish ready to go in minutes.
Ingredients
- Delicata squash – Look for one that feels firm with no soft spots and has smooth, unblemished skin. A relatively short season of late fall through early winter you should be able to find this squash in the produce section of your local grocery store.
- Olive Oil – Just enough to coat the squash for a light, even crisp. I like to use extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a savory, subtle garlic flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the squash.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds flavor, richness and a deliciously crispy, cheesy coating.
Instructions
Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F, allowing it to warm up while you prep the squash.
Prepare the Delicata Squash
On a cutting board start by cutting the tips off both ends of the squash with a sharp knife.
Carefully slice the squash in half lengthwise, then use a spoon to scoop out all seeds and the extra stringy bits from each half.
Slice the cleaned squash into half-inch thick pieces.
Season the Squash
Place the squash rings in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing them to coat evenly.
Add the garlic powder, salt, and 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese to the bowl, tossing once again until each piece is coated. This Parmesan melts during cooking, adding flavor and crispness to the squash.
Air Fry the Squash
Spread the squash pieces in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer basket. It’s important not to overcrowd them so they can cook evenly and become crispy.
Cook the squash for 8–10 minutes, tossing every 3–4 minutes to ensure all sides are exposed to the heat and cook evenly. After 8 minutes, check for your desired doneness. If you prefer a softer texture, cook closer to 10 minutes.
Finish and Serve
Once the squash is crispy and golden, remove it from the air fryer and transfer it to a bowl or plate.
Sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of Parmesan cheese over the warm squash for an extra cheesy finish. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
tips, tricks and questions
Do I need to peel Delicata squash?
Nope! One of the best things about Delicata squash is its thin, edible skin, which becomes tender when cooked. It adds both flavor and nutrition, making prep easier.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
No problem! For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast, which has a similar savory flavor. Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can also be substituted for Parmesan if you’re looking for a different cheese profile.
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely! To make it in the regular oven, spread the squash pieces on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. While it may take a bit longer than the air fryer, the result is just as tasty.
Variations:
While Parmesan and garlic powder are delicious, consider mixing up the flavors. Add a pinch of black pepper, smoked paprika for depth, rosemary for an earthy taste, or thyme for a fresh twist. You can even just use your favorite seasonings like italian seasoning. Or make it sweet by adding a little drizzle of maple syrup after cooking.
If you like this Delicata Squash Air Fryer Recipe you might also like:
Air Fryer Delicata Squash
This air fryer delicata squash is an easy fall side dish with a creamy texture on the inside and crispy outer skin flavored with garlic and parmesan cheese, the best part is that is only takes a few minutes to make.
Ingredients
- 1 medium Delicata squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375° F.
- Cut the tips off the squash and carefully cut in half the long way. Use a spoon to scoop out all the seeds and extra stringy bits in the inside of the squash halves.
- Cut the cleaned squash into half inch pieces. Add the cut squash to a bowl.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the squash and toss to coat. Add the garlic powder, salt, and 1 tablespoon parmesan cheese toss again to coat evenly.
- Add the squash to the air fryer. Cook 8 to 10 minutes tossing every 3 to 4 minutes.
- When the squash is cooked to your liking transfer to a bowl or plate and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
2Serving Size:
1/2 the dishAmount Per Serving: Calories: 123Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 417mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 3gSugar: 3gProtein: 3g
Nutritional data is automated and might not be 100% accurate, final nutritional information will depend on ingredients used and any changes made.
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