There’s something about butternut squash that screams cozy, and when you crisp it up into an appetizer? Game-changer. This recipe started with leftover squash from dinner one night. I sliced it thin, tossed it with a little seasoning, and pan-fried it just to see what would happen. What came out was golden, crunchy, and gone in minutes, thanks to my husband, who couldn’t stop raving.
If you’re looking for a new fall or holiday starter, this crispy butternut squash appetizer is it. It’s easy, wildly flavorful, and pairs beautifully with your favorite dips or cheese boards. Whether for Thanksgiving or a casual gathering, it’s a delicious way to surprise your guests.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Butternut Squash Appetizer
This isn’t just another roasted veggie on the table. It’s light, crunchy, and feels indulgent without being heavy.
Better than chips: Thinly sliced butternut squash crisps up beautifully, making a naturally sweet, savory, and satisfying bite.
No complicated steps: There’s no deep frying or battering involved. A quick seasoning and roast or pan-fry is all it takes.
Perfect for make-ahead: These stay crispy for hours, meaning you can make them before guests arrive and serve them without stress.
Pairs with everything: From whipped feta to cranberry chutney, they’re a blank canvas for your favorite dips. You could even pair them with other crowd-pleasers like these Thanksgiving Appetizer Deviled Eggs.
Whether you’re serving a big feast or planning a cozy night in, this appetizer brings flavor and fun without the fuss.
Crispy Butternut Squash Appetizer
This Crispy Butternut Squash Appetizer is the perfect fall starter; golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor using only 5 ingredients.
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and seeded
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
Fresh black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: fresh rosemary, parmesan, chili flakes
Instructions
1. Slice butternut squash into thin 1/8-inch slices using a sharp knife or mandoline.
2. Toss slices with olive oil, sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, and pepper.
3. Spread on a lined baking sheet or prep for pan-frying.
4. Roast at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Or pan-fry for 2–3 minutes per side.
5. Cool on a rack to maintain crispness. 6. Garnish with fresh herbs or parmesan before serving.
Notes
Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for extra crisp. Don’t stack while cooling; steam softens them. Pairs well with aioli, goat cheese, or seasonal dips.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roast or Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this butternut squash appetizer lies in its simplicity. You’ll only need a few pantry staples to make something that tastes gourmet.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (peeled and seeded)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh rosemary or thyme
- Shaved parmesan
- Red pepper flakes
If you want to dress it up for a holiday board, serve alongside Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies for Thanksg or savory dips.
How to Make This Butternut Squash Appetizer
This is where things get fun, and quick. Here’s how to make these golden bites.
- Slice the squash: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to cut thin, even slices. About 1/8-inch is ideal for crisping.
- Toss with seasoning: In a bowl, toss slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any extra seasoning like paprika or herbs.
- Roast or pan-fry:
- Oven: Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway.
- Pan-fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Cook in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy.
- Cool on a rack: This helps retain the crisp. Don’t stack them while warm; they’ll steam and soften.
- Optional garnish: Sprinkle with herbs or cheese before serving.
That’s it. You’ve got yourself a tray of crispy, golden butternut squash chips ready to disappear. They’re perfect alongside seasonal dishes like this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage.
Tips and Variations to Try
The base recipe is foolproof, but these tips help take it to the next level.
- 1. Slice even and thin: Uneven slices mean uneven cooking. A mandoline slicer gives you consistent results.
- 2. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the slices room to breathe or they’ll steam instead of crisp.
- 3. Add sweet or spicy twists: A light drizzle of maple syrup and cayenne makes a sweet-spicy version guests love. For a bold flavor, try smoked paprika or cumin.
- 4. Make it a bite-sized canapé: Use thicker slices, top with goat cheese and cranberry relish for a mini one-bite starter. Perfect for holiday boards like this Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board.
- 5. Air fryer approved: Cut back on oil and make them extra crisp by air frying at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
They’re endlessly adaptable, just like these Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups, which are another party favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the squash slices crispy after cooking?
Let them cool completely on a wire rack and store uncovered or loosely tented with foil. Avoid airtight containers as they trap moisture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Roast them a few hours in advance and re-crisp in a warm oven (300°F) for 5–7 minutes before serving.
What dips go well with this appetizer?
Try garlic aioli, whipped goat cheese, creamy yogurt dip, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Is peeling the butternut squash necessary?
Yes, the skin can be tough and bitter once roasted. Use a vegetable peeler for the smoothest result.
The Ultimate Seasonal Starter
This crispy butternut squash appetizer proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients can deliver the biggest flavor. With just a few pantry staples and a little prep, you can turn a humble squash into something golden, crunchy, and totally crowd-pleasing.
Whether you’re adding it to your fall snack rotation or building out a full holiday spread, this appetizer fits right in. Serve it as-is, top it with cheese, or add it to your favorite platter. It’s real food, real flavor, and really easy to love.
For more easy and satisfying recipes, join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!
