Fall is officially in the air, and you know what that means…it is officially winter squash season! Today, we are bringing you one of our absolute favorite ways to prepare a cozy, seasonal classic: Air Fryer Acorn Squash. 

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by cutting or roasting squash, the air fryer is about to become your new best friend. It caramelizes the edges to golden perfection while keeping the inside tender, sweet, and nutty. All in under 25 minutes! Whether you’re putting together a quick weeknight dinner or looking for an easy addition to your holiday table, this simple recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.

What Is Acorn Squash?

Acorn squash is a small, round winter squash. It is usually characterized by its distinctive ridged skin along with its vibrant green or orange color. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and a tender, creamy flesh when cooked. Packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, acorn squash is not only delicious but also a healthy addition to seasonal meals. It is a nutritious power-player for your plate!

A typical acorn squash weighs between one and two pounds. Its unique shape and color make it a popular choice for fall decorations as well. 

One of the absolute best things about acorn squash is its versatility. Because of its subtle natural sweetness, it pairs wonderfully with both savory seasonings (like garlic, herbs, and parmesan) and sweet toppings (like brown sugar, cinnamon, and maple syrup). 

Related: How To Cut Acorn Squash

Ingredients for Air Fryer Acorn Squash

To make this simple, flavor-packed dish, you only need three basic ingredients:

• 1 Acorn Squash, cut into 1″ thick half-moon pieces
• ⅓ cup Olive Oil (Avocado oil or melted butter work wonderfully, too!)
• Salt & Black Pepper, to taste

How To Make Air Fryer Acorn Squash

Making roasted acorn squash in the air fryer is fast, simple, and virtually mess-free! Follow these easy steps:

First, rinse and pat try your acorn squash.

Then, slice the acorn squash in half from stem to point, then use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds. 

Place the squash halves cut-side down on your cutting board and divide each half into 1″ thick half-moon shapes.

Next, season the acorn squash pieces. Using a basting brush, generously coat the acorn squash pieces on both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with salt and black pepper to taste.

Then, arrange the seasoned squash slices in an even, single layer in the basket of your air fryer (cook in batches if needed so they aren’t overcrowded). Air fry at 370°F for 10 minutes.

Finally, flip and finish: Remove the basket and carefully flip the slices over. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook at 370°F for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender with beautifully crispy, caramelized edges. Serve warm!

How To Store & Reheat

To Store: Allow leftover squash slices to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To Reheat in the Air Fryer: Pop the slices back into the air fryer basket at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes until heated through and crisp again.

To Reheat in the Microwave: Microwave in 30-second intervals until warm. (Note: The skin and edges will soften in the microwave, so the air fryer is best if you want to keep that nice roast!)

Finally, flip and finish: Remove the basket and carefully flip the slices over. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook at 370°F for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender with beautifully crispy, caramelized edges. Serve warm!

How To Store & Reheat

To Store: Allow leftover squash slices to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To Reheat in the Air Fryer: Pop the slices back into the air fryer basket at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes until heated through and crisp again.

To Reheat in the Microwave: Microwave in 30-second intervals until warm. (Note: The skin and edges will soften in the microwave, so the air fryer is best if you want to keep that nice roast!)