Air Fried Butternut Squash with Browned Butter and Crispy Sage is a quick and easy side dish with simple ingredients and big flavor. It's sweet, savory, and crisp around the edges with a rich nutty finish that brings out the natural flavor of the squash.
This cozy side is inspired by my love of crispy fried sage and butternut squash. Much like the flavors in my Butternut Squash Galette, it balances earthy sweetness with fresh herbs.
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Why You'll Love Air Fried Butternut Squash
Crispy and caramelized: air frying gives the squash a beautiful golden edge without turning mushy.
Quick and convenient: just 20 minutes in the air fryer and no need to babysit the pan.
Seasonal and satisfying: the browned butter and crispy fried sage add cozy fall flavor that tastes fancy but is easy to make.
Key Ingredients
Butternut squash: a sweet, nutty winter squash that holds it's shape well when cooked.
Salted butter: adds richness and depth, especially when browned.
Fresh sage leaves: frying them in the butter turns them crisp and flavorful, adding that signature fall touch.
Salt and black pepper: simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the squash.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use ghee instead of butter for a dairy-free option with the same nutty flavor.
Try rosemary or thyme if you don't have sage, both work well with butternut squash.
Purchase pre-cut butternut squash to save prep time.
Recipe Variations
Add maple syrup: drizzle with a little before tossing in the browned butter for a sweet touch.
Sprinkle with parmesan after cooking for a savory, cheesy finish.
Toss with toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Top Tips
- Cut squash evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer trays, keep it in a single layer.
- Use real butter for best flavor and browning.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375 degrees F for 5-7 minutes, until warmed through.
Serve With...
This dish pairs beautifully with Air Fryer Pork Loin with Maple Glaze for a hearty and satisfying dinner. It also goes great with Stuffed Chicken Breast and a bowl of Green Bean Soup.
More Air Fryer Side Dish Recipes
If you enjoy this air fried butternut squash, try my air fryer side dish recipes below:
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
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📖 Recipe
Air Fryer Butternut Squash
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Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 7 sage leaves
Instructions
- Place diced butternut squash in a single layer on air fryer trays. Coat with cooking spray and season with salt and pepper.
- Place trays in air fryer and cook for 10 minutes. Rotate trays and return to air fryer for 10 minutes more, or until squash is tender and lightly browned.
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, heat butter until bubbly. Reduce heat to low and add sage leaves. Cook for 30 seconds, until butter is browned and sage is crispy.
- Transfer the cooked butternut squash to the saucepan with the browned butter and sage. Toss to coat.
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