I absolutely love eating vegetables when they are naturally in season, which makes this air fryer stuffed butternut squash recipe perfect for those cozy autumn months. Butternut squash is a true seasonal favourite, and this dish is a wonderful way to embrace the flavours of Autumn. As the weather starts to cool, nothing makes the transition from the warmer months to autumn more enjoyable than a hearty, warming meal like this. With its comforting, flavourful stuffing and sweet, tender squash, it’s an ideal dish to bring the season’s best ingredients to your table.
This stuffed butternut squash is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. Packed with vitamin A, fiber, and potassium, it supports immune health and provides essential nutrients for your body. When you stuff the squash with wholesome ingredients like couscous, kale, and apricots, you’re boosting the nutritional profile even more. The couscous provides a light and fluffy base, while the kale adds a touch of green goodness. And the apricots offer a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savoury flavours of the squash.
What I love about this recipe is its flexibility. While I’ve shared my version below, you can easily swap in other ingredients to create your own variations. Add nuts for some crunch, or try quinoa instead of couscous for a gluten-free alternative. This air-fried stuffed butternut squash makes for a healthy, satisfying lunch or dinner. It’s also perfect for winding down after a walk or a busy day of watching the kids play sports. Whatever the occasion, this recipe brings warmth, comfort, and nutrition all in one delicious dish.
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 30 minutes
SERVES 1 person
KIT you will need an air fryer.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Stuffed Butternut
1 butternut squash
1 cup of cous cous
1/2 a red onion
1 handful of kale
A teaspoon of dried apricots
1 teaspoon of olive oil
1 teaspoon of runny honey
Pine nuts
Method
I began by preparing the butternut squash, which acts as both the base and the bowl for this wholesome meal. First, I sliced off the end of the squash to create a stable, rounded base that would hold the filling. Then I carefully scooped out the insides with a spoon, making sure to save the soft flesh for later use in the filling. I gave the hollowed-out squash a light spray with Frylight oil, which helps it roast beautifully and adds a lovely crisp to the outer edges.
Once prepped, I placed the squash in my air fryer and set it to 160°C. I let it cook for around 30 minutes until the squash was tender and golden brown, and the edges were just starting to crisp up – exactly how I like it!
While the squash bowl was cooking, I got started on the filling. I prepared one cup of couscous according to the packet instructions. While that was fluffing up, I finely chopped half a red onion, a small amount of the reserved squash, and a handful of fresh kale. I also added a teaspoon of chopped dried apricots for a sweet contrast. I tossed everything with a teaspoon of olive oil and a drizzle of honey, then popped the mixture into the air fryer at 200°C for just 2 minutes to soften and blend the flavours – giving it a quick shake halfway through.
Once done, I combined the roasted veg mixture with the cooked couscous and spooned it generously into the roasted butternut squash bowl. To finish, I sprinkled over some toasted pine nuts for a lovely crunch.
This dish is so versatile – you can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a delicious and adaptable vegetarian main.
Tips for Air Fryer Stuffed Butternut
Stuffed butternut squash in the air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, nutritious, and flavour-packed meal without turning on the oven. Whether you’re going for a savoury veggie filling or something protein-rich, these tips will help you get it perfect every time:
1. Choose the right size squash
Pick a medium butternut squash that fits in your air fryer basket. If it’s too large, slice it in half lengthways and trim the ends to help it sit flat.
2. Scoop and season well
Scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to make room for stuffing. Brush with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or cinnamon depending on your filling.
3. Pre-cook the squash
Air fry the halved squash at 180°C (356°F) for about 15–20 minutes before adding the filling. This softens the flesh slightly so it finishes cooking evenly once stuffed.
4. Prepare your filling in advance
Make your filling while the squash pre-cooks. Great options include quinoa with cranberries and feta, spiced chickpeas, or sausage and rice. Ensure it’s cooked and seasoned before stuffing.
5. Don’t overfill
Pack your filling generously, but not so full that it spills over or blocks air circulation. Press it down gently with a spoon.
6. Return to the air fryer
After stuffing, air fry for another 10–15 minutes or until the squash is tender and the top is golden. Add cheese for the final few minutes if you like a bubbly topping.
7. Check for doneness
Pierce the squash with a fork and it should be tender all the way through. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Stuffed butternut squash is a showstopping dish that’s surprisingly simple in the air fryer – perfect for midweek meals or special occasions.
Similar recipes
So if you like this healthy air fryer stuffed butternut, you might also like my air fryer tofu, the air fryer spinach cannelloni or the air fryer butternut sliders recipe.
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