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Crispy Parmesan Butternut Squash Fries Recipe (Easy & Baked)

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These crispy parmesan butternut squash fries are baked to perfection with a savory parmesan crust and tender, sweet interior. A quick and easy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–2.5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)
  • Extra grated parmesan (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one rack in the middle position.
  2. Prepare the butternut squash: cut off both ends, then cut the squash in half where the narrow neck meets the bulbous bottom. Stand the neck piece upright and slice off the skin. Cut the bottom piece in half and scoop out the seeds.
  3. Cut into fry shapes: slice the peeled squash into 1/2-inch thick planks, then cut into 1/2-inch wide strips.
  4. Dry the squash thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the grated parmesan, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Whisk together.
  6. Drizzle the olive oil over the dried squash fries and toss gently with your hands to coat evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the parmesan mixture over the oiled fries and toss gently until each fry is coated.
  8. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the coated fries in a single layer, ensuring none are overlapping.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes. After 12 minutes, flip each fry using tongs or a spatula. Return to the oven and bake for another 8-13 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  10. Check for doneness: fries should be golden brown with darker crispy edges, and a fork should slide through the center easily.
  11. Let the fries rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated parmesan and don’t skip the cornstarch or drying step. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crispiness. For an air fryer version, cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash fries, crispy parmesan fries, baked squash fries, healthy fries, easy side dish, vegetarian, gluten-free

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/crispy-parmesan-butternut-squash-fries-recipe-easy-and-baked/