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Close-up of golden roasted butternut squash cubes seasoned with herbs and pepper on a white dish.
Layla

Air Fryer Maple Sage Butternut Squash

Perfectly caramelized and tender, this Air Fryer Butternut Squash with maple and sage is a quick and elegant Thanksgiving side dish. The sweet and savory holiday flavors come together beautifully in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 188
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Maple Sage Butternut Squash
  • 1 medium butternut squash approx. 2.5 lbs, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp fresh sage finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/3 cup raw pecans roughly chopped

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Vegetable Peeler
  • Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. Prepare the butternut squash by carefully peeling the tough outer skin. Cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and then chop the flesh into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the butternut squash cubes, olive oil, maple syrup, chopped fresh sage, kosher salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss everything together until the squash cubes are evenly and thoroughly coated.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Place the seasoned butternut squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket; cook in two batches if necessary for the best caramelization.
  5. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket vigorously halfway through. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the chopped pecans to the basket to toast them.
  6. The butternut squash is done when it's fork-tender on the inside and has golden-brown, caramelized edges. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with additional fresh sage if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For easier peeling, you can pierce the squash with a fork in several places and microwave for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin.
OVEN METHOD: If you don't have an air fryer, roast on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
STORAGE: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.