Air Fryer Butternut Squash & Brussels Sprouts with Candied Pecans
Introduction
Discover a side dish that’s bursting with fall flavors and easy to prepare: Air Fryer Butternut Squash & Brussels Sprouts with Candied Pecans. The beauty of this recipe lies in its perfect balance—earthy roasted veggies paired with sweet, crunchy candied nuts. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights and impressive enough for holiday tables, making it an irresistible addition to any menu.
Flavorful & Vibrant Air Fryer Vegetable Medley
What makes this dish so special? The air fryer delivers caramelized, crispy edges on butternut squash and Brussels sprouts in a fraction of the oven time, while the candied pecans add a decadent, toasty crunch. Every bite brings together savory, sweet, and nutty notes—a combination that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
The Secret to Fast and Even Roasting in the Air Fryer
Chopped into evenly sized pieces, the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts cook quickly and uniformly in the air fryer, ensuring they’re perfectly golden outside and tender inside. Tossed with simple seasonings like olive oil, salt, and a hint of paprika, these veggies shine with every bite. Meanwhile, the candied pecans are made on the stovetop (or air fryer!), adding a delightful maple-sweet finish.
Effortless Assembly and Serving Suggestions
Once everything is roasted and the pecans are candied, toss the veggies and nuts together right before serving. If you’d like, finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra drizzle of maple syrup for even more depth. This vibrant, colorful dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, salmon, or as a hearty vegetarian entrée on its own.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe yields about 4 generous side servings. Each bowl is packed with fiber, vitamin A, and healthy fats from the pecans—typically around 220 calories per serving. It’s nutrient-rich, filling, and a guilt-free way to enjoy a sweet-savory treat!
Ingredients
💡Meal Planning Tip: Save this recipe to instantly generate a shopping list sorted by produce, pantry, and refrigerated items—making meal prep and grocery trips faster and more organized.
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss butternut squash cubes and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
- Add the vegetables to the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if needed for crispier results). Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden, tender, and charred at the edges.
- Meanwhile, make the candied pecans: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium. Add pecan halves, maple syrup, brown sugar (if using), and a pinch of cinnamon. Stir for 2–3 minutes until glossy and coated. Remove from heat and spread onto parchment paper to cool.
- Once the veggies are cooked and the pecans have cooled and hardened, gently break up the pecans and toss with roasted veggies in a large bowl.
- Transfer to a serving platter and finish with fresh herbs or an extra drizzle of maple syrup if desired. Serve warm.
Weekly Meal Planning
This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead—it makes a versatile side dish, a meal-prep veggie bowl, or a delicious addition to salads. Save and schedule this recipe in your meal plan to auto-generate a smart shopping list that consolidates everything you need for the week.
Planning Benefits:
- Adjusts ingredient quantities based on your meal plan or servings
- Keeps your shopping list organized by store section for fast trips
- Reduces excess buying and food waste
- Helps you prep veggies in advance—just reheat and toss with pecans when ready to serve!
Pro tip: When scheduling multiple meals, see exactly how much fresh produce or pantry staples to buy, keeping your fridge organized and costs down. Plan your week for maximum flavor and zero hassle!
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
