Weight Watchers Air Fryer Butternut Squash – Healthy, Flavorful, and Easy

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and Weight Watchers-friendly side dish, this Air Fryer Butternut Squash recipe is perfect. Tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, this dish is seasoned with a delicious blend of paprika, garlic, onion powder, and just a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. It’s low in calories, full of flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Weight Watchers-friendly – Low in calories and points.

• Quick & Easy – From prep to table in less than half an hour.

• Air fryer magic – Perfectly cooked squash without excess oil.

• Versatile – Pairs well with meats, salads, and other veggies.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Air fryer

• Sharp knife

• Small dish

• Spoon

• Nonstick pan

Ingredients

• 1½ tsp onion powder

• 1½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp sweet paprika

• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper

• ½ tsp kosher salt

• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)

• 4 heaping cups diced butternut squash (~24 ounces)

• 1 tsp olive oil

Ingredient Notes

• Onion & Garlic Powder – Store-bought powders are convenient, but fresh garlic and onions intensify the flavor.

• Paprika – Sweet paprika adds depth without too much spice.

• Cayenne Pepper – Use sparingly to balance heat.

• Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness; optional for Weight Watchers.

• Olive Oil – Helps the squash crisp in the air fryer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for cooking.

Step 2 – Prep the Butternut Squash

• Peel and dice the squash into 1-inch bite-sized cubes.

• Place the cubes in the air fryer basket and drizzle with 1 tsp olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3 – Air Fry Until Tender

Cook for 17–22 minutes, shaking the basket every 2–4 minutes for even cooking. The squash should be golden brown and fork-tender.

Step 4 – Make the Seasoning Mix

In a small dish, combine:

• Onion powder

• Garlic powder

• Sweet paprika

• Cayenne pepper

• Kosher salt

• Brown sugar (optional)

Mix well with a spoon and set aside.

Step 5 – Toss with Seasoning

When the squash is done, toss it with a little more olive oil (optional for extra crispness), then sprinkle over the seasoning mix. Stir to coat evenly.

Step 6 – Develop Flavor on the Stove (Optional)

Transfer the seasoned squash to a nonstick pan and simmer over medium heat for 3–5 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 7 – Serve & Enjoy

Place the butternut squash on a serving plate and enjoy warm.

Alternative Seasoning Ideas

• Sweet & Spicy – Use cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of cayenne.

• Savory Herb – Add rosemary, thyme, or allspice.

• Crispy Coating – Toss cubes with cornstarch or arrowroot powder before air frying.

• Sugar Swap – Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or honey.

Serving Suggestions

This Weight Watchers Air Fryer Butternut Squash pairs beautifully with:

• Scrambled eggs for breakfast

• Roasted chicken or baked pork chops

• Air-fried chicken legs or steak

• Simple green salads or roasted vegetables

• Garlic bread or steamed rice

Tips for Success

• Cut squash evenly for even cooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.

• Shake the basket regularly for even crisping.

• Buy pre-cut squash to save time.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 4–6 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed bag for 2–3 months.

• Reheat: Microwave for 2–4 minutes or air fry for 7–8 minutes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other squash varieties?
Yes! Spaghetti squash, honey nut squash, or acorn squash work well.

Q: What can I do with leftovers?
Mash and season to make veggie patties, or mix into soups and salads.

Q: Should I peel the squash before cooking?
Yes. The skin is tough and takes longer to cook, so peeling is recommended.

Nutritional Facts (Per 1 Cup Serving)

• Calories: 113 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Fat: 3.5 g

• Sugar: 4 g

• Fiber: 3.5 g

• Protein: 2 g

• Sodium: 148 mg

enjoy!