My air fryer acorn squash is in easy, versatile side dish for any meal. This squash can be prepared sweet or savory, whole or mashed making it easily customizable. Plus, with an air fryer, you get perfectly tender squash with caramelized edges in no time.

I first fell in love with acorn squash when my Mother-in-law made it for me over the holidays, it was love at first bite! It’s such a tasty squash that can be made in many different ways like the oven, the microwave, or my favorite way, the air fryer.

I like the rich flavor and caramelized texture you get when you cook acorn squash in the air fryer, plus it is faster than cooking it in the oven.

Acorn squash is a winter squash that can typically be found at the grocery store in the fall and winter months. It has a natural sweetness that works well as a great side dish or even main dish.

Cooking squash in the air fryer is so easy. I also like making roasted delicata squash, air fryer spaghetti squash, and air fryer butternut squash.

Why this recipe works

• Easy make. This is a simple way to cook squash with minimal cleanup.
• Less time. It takes less time than cooking in the oven and you don’t have to preheat.
• Taste. Roasting acorn squash really brings out the natural flavors.

Ingredients

You can prepare air fryer acorn squash in many different ways. Here are some options for sweet and savory.

• Acorn squash – Choose a squash that is mostly dark green and has a heavy feel with minimal blemishes.
• Savory – olive oil, salt, and pepper
• Sweet – butter, cinnamon, brown sugar

How to make air fryer acorn squash

Scroll to the bottom for full, printable recipe, ingredients and video.

1. Prepare: Cut the squash down the middle from top to bottom. Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and set aside.
2. Season: For the savory version, brush the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook: Place squash halves cut side up in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes or until desired doneness.
4. Serve: Serve the squash like it is, stuff it, or mash it.

How to store

Store: Let the air fryer acorn squash completely cook and then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Freeze: Allow squash to cook, remove the pulp and store in a freezer safe bag or container. It can be frozen up to 8 months.

Recipe tips

• Check cook time. Each air fryer cooks a little different so the cook time might vary. You may find you need to cook a little longer depending on the size of your squash and your machine.
• Cutting an acorn squash can be a little difficult sometimes. If necessary, place the whole squash in the microwave for 30 seconds to make it a little softer and easier to cut. Also, be sure to use a sharp knife.
• I used a 5.8 quart air fryer and was able to fit both halves in with plenty of room. Depending on your air fryer basket size, you might have to cook one at a time.
• Check to see if its done with a fork. If you can easily put a fork in the squash, it should be finished cooking.

Variations

There are several ways to eat and season acorn squash in the air fryer. I like it as a side, stuffed, and mashed. Here are a few ideas:

• Herbs: Add a few springs of fresh thyme or rosemary. You could also add 1/8 teaspoon of dried spices on each squash half.
• Maple syrup: Replace the olive oil with a little butter. Once finished cooking drizzle with maple syrup and brown sugar.
• Marshmallows: Mash the squash flesh. Add a little butter and top with mini marshmallows.
• Stuff: Try stuffing the squash with a mixture of cooked sausage, brown rice, and cranberries.
• Cheese: Sprinkle salt and Parmesan cheese for a simple side.

Serving suggestions

This is a simple side dish that pairs well with a variety of things like pork tenderloin, thin pork chops, and air fryer chicken breasts.

Frequently asked questions

More easy air fryer recipes

• Air fryer grilled cheese – A simple sandwich to make.
• Air fryer corn on the cob – Make the best corn on the cob.
• Air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus – A tasty side dish.
• Air fryer meatloaf – A simple way to cook a delicious meatloaf.

If you are looking for more ways to prepare this squash, check out this list of acorn squash recipes.