How to Air Fry Acorn Squash

Cut the acorn squash in half pole-to-pole and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Brush the cut surface generously with olive oil or melted butter. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon or brown sugar if you want a sweeter result.

Place halves cut-side up in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 20–25 minutes. The squash is done when a fork slides in with no resistance and the edges have begun to caramelize and brown.

Serve halves as individual bowls filled with butter and maple syrup, or scoop the flesh out and mash it. Stuffed versions (rice, sausage, or farro) also work well — add the filling in the last 8 minutes.

Leftover cooked acorn squash keeps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes to restore some caramelization.

What temperature for air fryer acorn squash?

Air fry acorn squash at 400°F (205°C). The high heat caramelizes the cut surface and softens the dense flesh within 20–25 minutes. Place halves cut-side up so the flesh faces the heat directly.

How long to cook acorn squash in air fryer?

Air fry halved acorn squash for 20–25 minutes at 400°F. No flipping is needed — cook cut-side up the entire time. Check doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part; it should slide in with no resistance.

Tips for air fryer acorn squash?

Brush the cut surface generously with oil or melted butter before cooking to promote caramelization. Season with salt and a pinch of cinnamon or brown sugar for a sweet-savory result. For stuffed versions, add the filling in the last 8 minutes so it heats through without burning.