Air-Fried Delicata Squash

A plate of air-fried delicata squash with a tahini drizzle.

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5 from 8 votes

Sweet, buttery, and perfectly crisp, this air fryer delicata squash is the ultimate side dish upgrade. With just three simple ingredients and a quick spin in the air fryer, you’ll have caramelized slices that taste like fall on a plate. Whether you’re prepping for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is easy, versatile, and downright irresistible.

Prep Time10

Cook Time30

Total Time40

Course: Side

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free, Low Lactose, Vegan, Vegetarian

Servings: -2

Calories: 213kcal

Author: Michelle Cehn

Ingredients

1 medium Delicata squash around 6-8 inches in length
½ tablespoon vegetable oil or oil spray or oil of your choice
½ teaspoon salt and pepper or to taste

Instructions

Wash and prep the squash. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and pat it dry. Trim off the ends, cut it in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Slice into ½-inch thick semi-circles.
Season the squash. Lay the squash slices on a plate or cutting board. Brush them lightly with olive oil (or spritz with oil spray), and season with salt. For extra flavor, sprinkle with pepper, smoked paprika, or a touch of cinnamon.
Air fry to perfection. Place the seasoned squash slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket, leaving space between each slice for even cooking. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until the edges are golden and crisp.
Serve and enjoy. Remove the squash from the air fryer and serve immediately. Pair with tahini sauce, your favorite dipping sauce, or add it to salads, grain bowls, or holiday spreads.

Notes

Oven Directions: If you don't have an air fryer, no problem! Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lay seasoned, oiled squash slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll come out tender, golden, and just as delicious. For easy cutting, feel free to microwave it first for 1-2 minutes.
Squash Substitutions: No delicata? Try kabocha, acorn, or butternut squash. Keep in mind that denser squashes might need extra steaming or roasting time to soften.
Oil-Free Version: You can skip the oil entirely or use just a light spritz. Your squash might not be as crisp, but it will still taste amazing and let its natural sweetness shine.
Tahini Sauce: For a creamy drizzle, whisk together 2 tablespoons of tahini with ½–1 tablespoon of warm water. Perfect for dipping or drizzling over your roasted squash!
Storing Leftovers: Store cooked squash in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–5 days. Want to freeze it? Pop it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 4–6 months.

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