How To Make Butternut Squash French Fries

Butternut squash french fries are a delicious, healthier alternative to regular potato fries, and you can easily make them at home in your own oven or air fryer.
 
These fries have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor with a crispy outside and a tender inside that will make you forget all about white potatoes.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to make butternut squash french fries that actually turn out crispy instead of soggy, you’re in the right place.
 
The good news is that making butternut squash french fries is simple once you know a few key tricks.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to make butternut squash french fries, from choosing the right squash to getting that perfect golden crunch.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

How to Make Butternut Squash French Fries

Learning how to make butternut squash french fries comes down to a few important steps, and each one matters for getting that crispy texture you want.
 
Here’s how to make butternut squash french fries that turn out perfectly every time:
 

1. Pick the Right Butternut Squash

The first step in how to make butternut squash french fries is choosing a good squash.
 
Look for one that feels heavy for its size with a smooth, firm skin and no soft spots.
 
A squash with a long, thick neck gives you more of the solid flesh that’s easiest to cut into fry shapes.
 
Avoid squash that feels light or has blemishes, since those signs usually mean the inside is dry or already going bad.
 

2. Peel and Cut the Squash Into Even Strips

To make butternut squash french fries, you’ll need to peel the squash, scoop out the seeds, and cut the flesh into sticks.
 
Aim for fries that are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick so they cook evenly.
 
If your fries are different sizes, some will burn while others stay raw.
 
So take your time here, because even cutting is one of the biggest secrets to how to make butternut squash french fries that crisp up nicely.
 

3. Soak the Fries to Remove Excess Starch

Just like with potato fries, soaking your butternut squash fries in cold water for about 30 minutes helps remove surface starch.
 
This step is often skipped, but it makes a real difference when you want to know how to make butternut squash french fries that don’t turn mushy.
 
After soaking, drain the fries and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
 
Any moisture left on the fries will steam them instead of crisping them.
 

4. Toss With Oil and Seasonings

Once your fries are dry, toss them in a bowl with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil.
 
You want every fry lightly coated, but not drenched, so they roast instead of fry.
 
Then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, or any seasoning blend you love.
 
A pinch of cornstarch or arrowroot powder along with the oil can also help make butternut squash french fries crispier in the oven.
 

Best Ways to Cook Butternut Squash French Fries

Now that you know how to make butternut squash french fries, the next question is how to cook them.
 
You’ve got a few great options, and each one gives you a slightly different result.
 

1. Oven-Baked Butternut Squash French Fries

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
 
Spread the fries in a single layer with space between each one, because crowding steams them.
 
Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crisp at the edges.
 
This is the most popular way to make butternut squash french fries at home.
 

2. Air Fryer Butternut Squash French Fries

An air fryer is one of the fastest ways to make butternut squash french fries.
 
Set it to 400°F and cook the fries in a single layer for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
 
The hot circulating air gives you that crispy exterior without using much oil at all.
 
Just don’t overcrowd the basket, or your fries will come out soft instead of crunchy.
 

3. Deep-Fried Butternut Squash French Fries

If you want the crispiest possible result, frying is another way to make butternut squash french fries.
 
Heat oil to about 350°F and fry the strips in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden.
 
Drain them on paper towels and sprinkle with salt right away.
 
This method makes butternut squash french fries that taste just like the ones from a restaurant.
 

Tips for Crispy Butternut Squash French Fries

Getting crispy fries isn’t hard once you know what to watch out for.
 
Here are a few tips that make a big difference when you make butternut squash french fries:
 

1. Dry the Fries Thoroughly

Moisture is the number one enemy of crispy fries.
 
Pat them dry, then let them air dry for a few extra minutes before seasoning.
 

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Give your butternut squash french fries room to breathe so they roast instead of steam.
 
Use two baking sheets if you need to.
 

3. Flip Halfway Through Cooking

Flipping ensures both sides get that golden, crispy finish.
 
It’s a small step that makes butternut squash french fries much better.
 

4. Serve Immediately

Butternut squash french fries are best enjoyed hot and fresh.
 
They tend to soften as they sit, so serve them right out of the oven or fryer.
 

So, How to Make Butternut Squash French Fries?

To make butternut squash french fries, you peel and cut the squash, soak the strips, dry them well, toss with oil and seasonings, then bake, air fry, or deep fry until golden and crisp.
 
The process is simple, and the result is a tasty, healthier fry that works as a side dish, snack, or party food.
 
Now that you know how to make butternut squash french fries, grab a squash and give this recipe a try tonight.