Butternut Squash Fries
Butternut Squash Fries are a tasty twist on the classic french fry, offering a sweet and slightly nutty flavor with a crispy outside and tender inside. These fries are made…
Tip: save now, cook later.Butternut Squash Fries are a tasty twist on the classic french fry, offering a sweet and slightly nutty flavor with a crispy outside and tender inside. These fries are made from butternut squash, which gives them a lovely orange color and a satisfying, natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with a hint of salt and your favorite seasonings.
I love making these fries because they’re simple to prepare and feel a little more special than regular potato fries. One of my favorite tricks is to toss them in a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with paprika or garlic powder before baking, which gives them an extra burst of flavor without much effort. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak some veggies into a meal without anyone noticing.
These fries work great as a side dish, especially alongside a juicy burger or a fresh salad. I often serve them with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or a simple ketchup, which everyone loves. Whenever I make Butternut Squash Fries, they’re always the first thing to disappear at the table, which makes me happy knowing I’m serving something both tasty and a little healthier.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the recipe. It has a gentle sweetness that works great for fries. If you can’t find butternut squash, sweet potatoes make a tasty alternative with a similar texture.
Olive Oil: I like using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. You can swap it for avocado or vegetable oil if you want a higher smoke point or milder taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty kick and slight crunch. For a vegan option, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika bring warmth and depth. Feel free to experiment with chili powder or cumin for a different twist.
How Do You Get Crispy Butternut Squash Fries in the Oven?
Oven-baked fries can get soggy easily, so here’s how I make them nice and crisp:
- Cut the fries evenly (about ½ inch thick) so they cook at the same rate.
- Coat them well with oil and spices to enhance crispness and flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—give each fry space to roast properly.
- Flip fries halfway through baking to brown both sides evenly.
- Bake at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) to quickly dry out the fries and create a crispy shell.
- Sprinkle the cheese or nutritional yeast immediately after baking for added texture as it melts slightly on the hot fries.
Following these tips helped me get these fries crunchy outside but tender inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – A large, flat one helps the fries cook evenly and get crispy without sticking.
- Parchment paper – Makes cleanup easy and stops the fries from sticking to the pan.
- Sharp knife – Perfect for cutting the butternut squash into even fries safely.
- Large bowl – Great for tossing the fries with oil and spices evenly.
- Small mixing bowl – Handy for stirring up the dipping sauces.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that pairs well with the squash’s sweetness.
- Sprinkle fresh thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a woodsy, herbal flavor.
- Try tossing fries with grated cheddar or mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a gooey, cheesy twist.
- Mix in a pinch of cinnamon and brown sugar for a sweeter, dessert-style fry.
How to Make Butternut Squash Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or parsley, finely chopped (optional garnish)
For the Dipping Sauces:
- Spicy mayo:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce or sriracha
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- Ketchup (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 to 30 minutes to bake. So in under 40 minutes, you’ll have warm, crispy butternut squash fries ready to enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Squash:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Peel the butternut squash with a vegetable peeler, then halve it lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Cut the squash into 1/2-inch thick fry shapes.
2. Season the Fries:
Place the squash fries in a large bowl and toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Bake the Fries:
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. This helps them get nice and crispy. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the fries are golden and edges are crisp.
4. Add Parmesan and Garnish:
Remove the fries from the oven and immediately sprinkle grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast on top so it melts slightly. If you like, finish by adding chopped fresh rosemary or parsley for a fresh touch.
5. Make the Spicy Mayo and Serve:
While the fries are baking, mix mayonnaise, hot sauce, and lemon juice in a small bowl to create a spicy mayo dip. Serve the fries warm with the spicy mayo and ketchup on the side.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy butternut squash fries!
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash for Fries?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the squash completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before tossing with oil and seasoning. This helps the fries crisp up better in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftover Butternut Squash Fries?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to help regain some crispiness.
Can I Make These Fries Gluten-Free or Vegan?
Absolutely! Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan option, and double-check that any sauces you use are gluten-free. The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your seasonings and dips don’t contain gluten.
What Other Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Butternut Squash Fries?
Besides spicy mayo and ketchup, try garlic aioli, honey mustard, or a tangy yogurt-based dip for delicious alternatives.