Butternut Squash Fries are a delightful twist on classic fries, bringing a natural sweetness and a beautiful golden color to the plate. These fries are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, thanks to the smooth, buttery texture of butternut squash. They’re lightly seasoned, making them a perfect snack or side dish that feels both comforting and a little special.
I love making these fries when I’m craving something warm and cozy but want to keep things on the lighter side. A little sprinkle of salt and some pepper is all they need to shine, and sometimes I toss them with a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika for an extra touch of flavor. They’re super easy to prepare, and I find that roasting them in the oven brings out their natural sweetness in just the right way.
These fries are wonderful served with a simple dip like garlic aioli or ketchup, but honestly, I enjoy them just as much on their own. They’re perfect for family dinners or as a tasty snack while watching a movie. Every time I make them, I’m reminded of how something so simple can feel like a treat and bring a little sunshine to the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: The star of this recipe! Choose a firm squash with smooth skin. If it’s tough to peel, a vegetable peeler made for hard veggies helps. You can substitute with sweet potatoes or carrots for a similar texture and sweetness.
Cornmeal: This gives the fries a nice crunchy coating. If you don’t have cornmeal, try panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for crispiness. For a gluten-free option, gluten-free cornmeal or almond flour works too.
Olive Oil: I prefer olive oil for its flavor and health benefits, but you can swap with avocado oil or sunflower oil if you want a higher smoke point. Just use enough to lightly coat the fries for roasting.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add depth and a bit of warmth. Feel free to skip or swap smoked paprika for chili powder or cumin if you like a different flavor.
How Do You Get Butternut Squash Fries Crispy and Not Soggy?
Because butternut squash is soft, making crispy fries can be tricky. Here are my tips to get that perfect crunch:
- Cut the fries evenly—about ½ inch thick—to ensure they cook evenly.
- Coat them well with olive oil first, so the cornmeal sticks and helps crisp the outside.
- Dredge in cornmeal or your coating choice to create a crunchy shell.
- Space fries out on the baking sheet so air can circulate—crowding leads to steaming and sogginess.
- Bake at a high temperature (425°F) to brown the edges quickly without making them mushy inside.
- Flip halfway through baking to crisp both sides evenly.
If you follow these steps, your fries will come out golden and crispy, with tender, sweet squash inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough to spread fries out in a single layer for even crisping.
- Sharp knife – helps you cut butternut squash into uniform sticks safely.
- Peeler – makes peeling the tough squash skin much easier.
- Mixing bowls – one for tossing squash with oil, another for coating with cornmeal.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get seasonings and oil just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese right after baking for a salty, cheesy crunch.
- Swap smoked paprika for chili powder or cumin to add a smoky or earthy twist.
- Mix in dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh, piney flavor.
- Try tossing fries in a bit of cinnamon and brown sugar before baking for a sweet-savory combo.
How to Make Butternut Squash Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into ½-inch sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ⅓ cup cornmeal or fine polenta
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in under 40 minutes, you can have delicious, crispy butternut squash fries ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Coat the Butternut Squash:
In a large bowl, toss the cut butternut squash sticks with olive oil until they are evenly coated.
3. Mix the Seasoning and Coating:
In a separate shallow dish, combine the cornmeal, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Dredge each butternut squash stick in this mixture, coating thoroughly, and shake off any excess.
4. Arrange and Bake:
Place the coated squash sticks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through to ensure they become golden and crispy on all sides.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the fries from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Add extra salt if you like, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like garlic aioli, ranch, or ketchup.
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash for Fries?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before coating and baking. This helps achieve crispier fries.
How Should I Store Leftover Butternut Squash Fries?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to help them crisp up again.
Can I Make These Fries Spicier?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cornmeal seasoning mix for a spicy kick that pairs well with the natural sweetness of the squash.
What’s the Best Way to Cut Butternut Squash for Fries?
Peel and seed the squash first, then cut it into sticks about ½ inch thick. Keeping the pieces uniform helps them cook evenly and become crispy all around.
