How To Make Butternut Squash French Fries

Butternut squash french fries are a delicious and healthier twist on classic fries, and you can absolutely make them at home with just a few simple ingredients.
 
If you’ve been searching for a crispy, flavorful alternative to regular potato fries, butternut squash french fries are the answer you’ve been looking for.
 
They’re naturally sweet, packed with vitamins, and when seasoned and baked just right, they deliver that satisfying crunch you crave.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to make butternut squash french fries, from picking the right squash to getting them perfectly crispy in the oven.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

How to Make Butternut Squash French Fries

Making butternut squash french fries is easier than you might think, and the process starts with choosing and prepping your squash.
 
Here’s how to make butternut squash french fries step by step so you get great results every time.
 

1. Pick the Right Butternut Squash

The foundation of great butternut squash french fries is a good squash.
 
Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, blemish-free skin.
 
A firm squash means the flesh inside is dense, which helps your butternut squash french fries hold their shape instead of turning mushy.
 
Avoid any squash with soft spots or green patches, as those won’t give you the best texture for fries.
 

2. Peel, Seed, and Cut Into Fry Shapes

Once you’ve got your squash, peel off the skin with a sturdy vegetable peeler.
 
Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and then slice the flesh into fry-shaped sticks about a quarter-inch thick.
 
The size matters when you make butternut squash french fries because thinner fries get crispier, while thicker ones stay softer inside.
 
Try to keep your cuts uniform so every butternut squash french fry cooks evenly in the oven.
 

3. Soak and Dry for Maximum Crispiness

Here’s a trick many people skip: soak your cut fries in cold water for about 30 minutes.
 
This removes excess surface starch, which is the secret to getting crispy butternut squash french fries rather than soggy ones.
 
After soaking, drain them and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel.
 
Any moisture left on the fries will steam them in the oven instead of roasting them, so don’t rush this step.
 

Seasoning and Baking Your Butternut Squash French Fries

Now that your fries are prepped, it’s time to season and bake them to golden perfection.
 
This is where your butternut squash french fries really come to life.
 

1. Toss With Oil and Seasonings

Drizzle your dried fries with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil.
 
Then sprinkle on salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a savory kick.
 
If you like a little heat, a pinch of cayenne works wonders on butternut squash french fries.
 
Toss everything together until each fry is evenly coated, because bland patches ruin the experience.
 

2. Spread Them Out in a Single Layer

Crowding the baking sheet is the number one reason butternut squash french fries turn out soggy.
 
Arrange your fries in a single layer with a little space between each one.
 
If you’re making a big batch, use two baking sheets rather than piling them up.
 
This allows hot air to circulate around every butternut squash french fry, giving you that crispy exterior you’re after.
 

3. Bake at High Heat and Flip Halfway

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for about 20 minutes.
 
At the halfway mark, flip each butternut squash french fry so both sides brown evenly.
 
Keep an eye on them toward the end, as they can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly.
 
When they’re crisp and lightly browned, pull them out and let them cool for a minute before serving.
 

Tips for the Crispiest Butternut Squash French Fries

Getting your butternut squash french fries truly crispy takes a few extra moves, but they’re worth it.
 
Here are some pointers to keep in mind.
 

1. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch

Tossing your dry fries with a tablespoon of cornstarch before adding oil helps create a crispy coating.
 
This simple step is a game-changer for butternut squash french fries that need a little extra crunch.
 

2. Use Parchment Paper

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
 
It also helps the bottoms of your butternut squash french fries brown nicely without burning.
 

3. Serve Immediately

Like all fries, butternut squash french fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
 
They tend to soften as they sit, so gather your dipping sauces and dig in right away.
 
A little garlic aioli or spicy ketchup pairs beautifully with these fries.
 

So, How Do You Make Butternut Squash French Fries?

You make butternut squash french fries by peeling and cutting a fresh squash into sticks, soaking and drying them, then tossing with oil, seasonings, and a touch of cornstarch before baking at high heat.
 
The key steps are keeping the fries dry, spreading them in a single layer, and flipping them halfway through baking.
 
With these tips, your butternut squash french fries will come out crispy, flavorful, and totally satisfying.
 
Hope this post has helped you learn how to make butternut squash french fries that everyone at your table will love.