Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig-Zags (Healthy Fries!)

Looking for a healthy and delicious alternative to regular fries? These Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig-Zags are the perfect solution! They crisp up beautifully in the air fryer with just a touch of seasoning, making them an easy and satisfying side dish or snack. Whether you’re trying to eat more veggies or just want something new to try from Trader Joe’s, this simple air fryer recipe will be a hit.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig-Zags Fries

• These butternut squash fries are incredibly easy to make. All you need is a package from Trader Joe’s, a few seasonings, and an air fryer. No peeling or chopping required. Just toss, cook, and enjoy!

• They’re a healthier alternative to traditional french fries. Made from nutrient-rich butternut squash and air-fried instead of deep-fried, these fries are lower in fat and calories. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and vegan. Perfect for clean eating without sacrificing flavor!

• The texture is absolutely perfect. The outside gets nicely crisp while the inside stays tender and soft. You won’t believe how satisfying they are. They’re ideal for snacking or serving alongside your favorite main dish.

• They’re super versatile and customizable. Stick to basic salt and pepper or spice things up with garlic powder, paprika, or even cinnamon for a sweet twist. You can even dip them in ketchup, ranch, or your favorite sauce. The possibilities are endless!

• This recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s great for busy weeknights or when you want something tasty without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Minimal prep, quick cooking, and easy cleanup. It doesn’t get better than that!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig-Zags Fries

• Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig-Zags – These pre-cut zig-zag shaped fries are a fun and convenient way to enjoy butternut squash without all the prep.

• Olive Oil (optional) – A light drizzle helps crisp the edges and adds a bit of richness, but you can leave it out for a fat-free version.

• Salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the squash and boosts flavor.

• Pepper – Adds just the right amount of mild spice and contrast to the sweetness of the squash.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig-Zags Fries

• Air Fryer – This is the key tool for cooking the fries to crispy perfection without any deep frying.

• Bowl – Used to toss the butternut squash zig-zags with oil and seasonings before air frying.

• Spatula – Helpful for tossing the squash in the bowl and removing the fries from the air fryer once they’re done.

How To Make Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig-Zags Fries

• Start by opening the package of Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig-Zags.

• Pour them into a bowl and drizzle with a little olive oil, if using.

• Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then mix well to coat all the pieces.

• Place the seasoned squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

• Set the air fryer to 390°F and cook for 15 minutes.

• At the halfway point, take out the basket and shake it to help everything cook evenly.

• When time is up, check for tenderness—if they need more time, cook for a few extra minutes.

• Once done, remove from the air fryer and enjoy immediately!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a healthy side dish with grilled chicken thighs, turkey burgers, or baked grouper.

• Enjoy them as a fun and wholesome snack straight from the air fryer.

• Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like sriracha mayo, wingstop ranch, or creamy green onion dip.

• Sprinkle with shredded parmesan for a cheesy twist.

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• Try a dash of cinnamon sugar for a sweet and savory flavor combo.

Tips For Success

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Make sure the squash zig-zags are in a single layer for the best crispy texture. Overlapping pieces can lead to uneven cooking and soggy fries.

• Shake the basket halfway through. This helps flip the fries and ensures all sides get evenly browned and cooked. It only takes a few seconds but makes a big difference in texture.

• Adjust seasoning to taste. While salt and pepper are a great start, feel free to try other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet version.

• Check for doneness. Butternut squash can vary in thickness, so check a fry at the end of the cooking time. If it’s not quite tender or browned to your liking, just add a few more minutes.

• Optional oil makes a difference. A light drizzle of oil adds extra crispiness and flavor, but the fries can still turn out great without it. Choose what works best for your diet and preferences.

Variations And Substitutions

• Use homemade squash fries: If you can’t find Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Zig-Zags, simply peel and cut a fresh butternut squash into fry shapes. Follow the exact same steps for seasoning and air frying. This gives you the same tasty result with a DIY twist.

• Switch up the seasonings: Try garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or chili powder for different flavor profiles. You can even make them sweet with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar. The squash is very versatile, so it pairs well with many flavors.

• Go oil-free: If you’re avoiding oil, skip it entirely—the fries will still come out tender and slightly crispy. Just be sure to shake the basket during cooking to prevent sticking. You can also use a non-stick spray if desired.

• Add a cheesy topping: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast over the hot fries right after cooking. It adds a rich, cheesy flavor and makes them extra savory.

• Make it spicy: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. Serve with spicy sriracha mayo or buffalo sauce for a zesty snack.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Let the fries cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Avoid stacking them too tightly to help preserve their texture.

• Reheating in the air fryer: This is the best method for keeping them crispy. Reheat at 380°F for 3–5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

• Reheating in the microwave: You can microwave them for 30–60 seconds, but they’ll be softer and less crispy. This method is quick and convenient for a fast snack.

• Avoid freezing: These fries don’t freeze well after being cooked. The texture becomes mushy when thawed, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh or from the fridge within a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen butternut squash instead of Trader Joe’s zig-zags?

Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash, but keep in mind that the texture might be softer. Frozen squash releases more moisture as it cooks, which can prevent the fries from getting crispy. If you use frozen squash, cook in a single layer and extend the air frying time slightly to help reduce sogginess. You may not get the same crispiness as with the fresh zig-zags, but they’ll still be tasty.

Do I need to peel butternut squash if I make my own fries?

Yes, if you’re cutting your own butternut squash, you should peel it first. The skin is thick and doesn’t get tender in the air fryer. Use a vegetable peeler or sharp knife to remove the skin, then cut the squash into fry shapes. Follow the same cooking instructions as the pre-cut version.

What if my squash fries aren’t crispy?

There are a few reasons this can happen. Overcrowding the air fryer basket, skipping the oil, or using frozen squash can all lead to a softer texture. Make sure the fries are in a single layer and use a small amount of oil if you want maximum crispiness. Shaking the basket during cooking also helps them cook evenly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook in batches. The air fryer works best when food is in a single layer. If you try to cook too many at once, the fries will steam instead of crisp. Cook in two or more batches if you’re making a larger amount.

Are these fries kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The natural sweetness of butternut squash makes these fries appealing to kids. You can keep the seasoning simple or even add a little cinnamon and sugar to turn them into a sweet treat. Serve with ketchup or their favorite dipping sauce for extra fun.

Other Easy Trader Joe’s Recipes

Frozen Tamales In The Instant Pot – These Instant Pot tamales come out perfectly steamed and ready to eat straight from frozen with no defrosting needed.

Air Fryer Root Veggie Fries From Frozen – Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, these frozen root vegetable fries cook up beautifully in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi – This easy air fryer method gives you crispy, golden-brown cauliflower gnocchi with no sticking or mush.

Low Carb Hearts Of Palm Pasta – This gluten-free hearts of palm pasta is a quick and healthy low-carb dinner that pairs well with your favorite sauce.

Air Fryer Frozen Corn Ribs – These corn ribs are sweet, crispy, and totally addictive when air fried straight from frozen.

Soft Pretzels From Frozen In Air Fryer – Fluffy on the inside and perfectly golden outside, these frozen soft pretzels are ready in minutes with no oven needed.

Trader Joe’s Pastry Pups In Air Fryer – These mini puff pastry hot dogs cook in just 10 minutes in the air fryer and are perfect for parties or snacks.

More Air Fryer Recipes

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