Air fryer delicata squash recipe

5 from 1 vote

Air fryer delicata squash is quick, tender, and crisp in just 8 minutes. My honey parmesan crust makes it a cozy weeknight or holiday side dish.

Prep Time10

Cook Time8

Total Time18

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Air fryer delicata squash, delicata squash air fryer

Servings: servings

26 oz. delicata squash (2 medium, heavy in weight, not overly ripe and not too hard.)
2.5 tbsp unsalted butter
½ tsp coarse sea salt
⅛ tsp ground black pepper
¼ tsp garlic granules
3 oz grated parmesan cheese divided
Light drizzle Honey plus more for garnish
Avocado oil spray or any neutral-flavored oil
Small handful cilantro or parsley, garnish, optional

Prep the squash: Scrub the delicata squash clean, pat dry, and cut off both ends. Halve lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Slice: Cut into half-moon shapes, about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick. Place in a large mixing bowl.
Melt the butter: Pour the melted butter over the squash.
Season: Add salt, black pepper, and garlic granules. Toss to coat evenly.
Add parmesan: Sprinkle in 2 ½ oz (70 g) of the parmesan, reserving the rest for garnish. Toss to coat, then gently press the cheese onto the squash so it sticks.
Drizzle honey: Lightly drizzle honey over the squash, distributing evenly (I used a little less than 1 tbsp).
Prepare the air fryer: Spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the squash skin-side down in a standing position, in a single layer with space between pieces. This helps prevent sticking. Cook in 2 batches if needed.
Air fry: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 8 minutes. When removing from the basket, wait about 15 seconds — the cooler air will help the squash release and lift out more easily. Transfer to a serving plate and repeat with the second batch.
Finish and garnish: While still hot, sprinkle with a touch more salt, drizzle a little extra honey, and top with the remaining parmesan. Garnish with cilantro or parsley.
Serve: Enjoy warm.

Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and swap in vegan butter.
Selecting delicata squash: Pick ones that feel heavy for their size with firm skin. Avoid squash that feels soft, wrinkled, or unusually light.
Parmesan tip: Press the cheese onto the squash so it sticks and crisps instead of falling off.
Storage & Reheat: Store cooked squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4–5 days. Reheat at 360°F (182°C) for 3-4 minutes to bring back the crispy texture.
Freezing: Let the squash cool to room temperature, then flash-freeze to maintain shape before transferring to freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 1–2 months.