Air Fryer Fried Squash: 7 Crispy Delights to Savor

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 22, 2025

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If you’re looking for a quick and healthy side dish that’s bursting with flavor, then let me introduce you to my crispy air fryer fried squash! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the summer when fresh squash is in abundance. The air fryer works its magic, transforming simple slices of yellow squash and zucchini into golden, crunchy bites that you just can’t resist. Trust me, the first time I made this, I couldn’t believe how easy and delicious it was! It’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or even as a snack on its own. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some veggies into your diet without sacrificing taste. You’ll love how quickly it comes together—just a bit of prep and then let the air fryer do all the work. Get ready for a delightful addition to your meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients List

1 medium yellow squash, sliced into rounds
1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
1 cup breadcrumbs (I prefer using panko for an extra crunch!)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray (helps achieve that golden finish)

How to Prepare Instructions

First things first, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because it helps the squash get that lovely crispy texture we’re all after!
While that’s heating up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to ensure everything’s evenly mixed. Oh, the aroma of those spices is just heavenly!
Now, it’s time to coat your squash slices. Take each slice of yellow squash and zucchini and dip them into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure they’re fully covered. I like to press down a little on each slice to help the coating stick. You want them to be nice and crispy!
Next, spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference. No one wants to wrestle with stuck squash!
Carefully arrange the coated squash slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid crowding them, as this can prevent them from getting that perfect crispiness. If you have lots, you might need to work in batches.
Once they’re all in, give the tops a quick spray of olive oil. This helps them brown beautifully!
Now, air fry the squash for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy!
Finally, remove the squash from the air fryer and serve them hot. They’re best enjoyed fresh, so dig in and savor that crunch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 12 minutes in the air fryer, you’ll have a delicious side dish in no time!
Healthy Eating: This air fryer fried squash is a guilt-free delight, packed with vitamins and low in calories, making it the perfect addition to any meal.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and seasonings creates a mouthwatering flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the squash.
Versatile Dish: Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, tossing it into a salad, or enjoying it as a snack, this dish fits perfectly into any meal plan.

Tips for Success

To make sure your air fryer fried squash turns out absolutely perfect, here are my top tips! First, if you want that extra crunch, feel free to double coat the squash. Just dip them in the breadcrumb mixture, then dip again for a thicker layer! Also, don’t skip the olive oil spray—it’s essential for achieving that golden color and crispy texture.

When it comes to seasoning, taste as you go! Adjust the garlic powder and paprika to your preference; you can even throw in some Italian seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for a kick! Remember to keep the squash slices uniform in thickness—about 1/4 inch works best—to ensure even cooking.

And here’s a pro tip: if your air fryer is smaller, cook in batches. This way, each slice gets enough airflow to crisp up beautifully. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Variations

The beauty of air fryer fried squash is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. For instance, feel free to experiment with different vegetables! Try adding sliced bell peppers or even eggplant to the mix for a colorful twist. Just remember to keep everything around the same thickness for even cooking.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider changing the seasoning! Swap out the garlic powder and paprika for Italian herbs like oregano and basil, or go for a spicy kick with some cayenne pepper or chili powder. You could even add a splash of lemon juice or zest for a refreshing zing!

Another fun idea is to mix in some shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella with your breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy crust. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine in the kitchen and discover your own favorite variations! Enjoy the journey of flavor!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you have any leftovers of your delicious air fryer fried squash (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), make sure to store them properly to keep that crispy goodness intact. Place the cooled squash in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days.

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the air fryer again! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and air fry the squash for about 3-5 minutes. This method helps restore their crunchiness. You could also use an oven if you don’t have an air fryer—just spread them out on a baking sheet and heat until crispy. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information Section

As with any recipe, the nutritional information for my air fryer fried squash can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I can’t provide exact numbers, here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: Approximately 150
Fat: 6g
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 2g

These values make this dish a healthy and satisfying option for any meal. Enjoy the flavors and benefits of this delightful side dish!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow squash and zucchini are my favorites for air fryer fried squash, you can also try using butternut squash or pattypan squash. Just make sure to slice them evenly for consistent cooking!

Q2: Is it necessary to peel the squash before cooking?
Nope! I love leaving the skin on because it adds extra nutrients and a lovely texture. Just give the squash a good wash before slicing to remove any dirt.

Q3: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Great question! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers. It’ll still be just as delicious!

Q4: What dipping sauces go well with air fryer fried squash?
Ooh, I’m glad you asked! A creamy ranch dressing or a zesty marinara sauce pairs perfectly. You can also make a simple garlic aioli by mixing mayonnaise with minced garlic and lemon juice for an extra flavor boost!

Q5: Can I prepare the squash ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can coat the squash slices in the breadcrumb mixture and store them in the fridge for a few hours before air frying. Just make sure to spray them with olive oil right before cooking to keep them crispy!