Fries are an all-time favorite, but what if we could take this beloved classic and give it a spicy twist? Enter Cajun Butternut Squash Fries. With their crispy exterior and tender, slightly sweet interior, these fries are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries. The Cajun seasoning adds a bold, spicy kick that will have your taste buds dancing. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to transform simple butternut squash into a spicy, addictive snack or side dish.
Ingredients
For the Butternut Squash Fries:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into thin, fry-like strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cajun Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Preparing the Butternut Squash Fries:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel the butternut squash, cut it in half, and remove the seeds with a spoon.
- Cut the peeled squash into thin, fry-like strips. Try to make them as uniform in size as possible for even cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash strips with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the squash strips are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Arrange the seasoned squash strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t crowded. This allows them to crisp up nicely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through the cooking time. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Making the Cajun Dipping Sauce:
- While the fries are baking, prepare the Cajun dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Cajun seasoning, fresh lemon juice, and hot sauce. Stir until well mixed. Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred level of spiciness.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the Cajun butternut squash fries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve the hot fries alongside the Cajun dipping sauce.
Tips
- Uniform Sizing: Cutting the butternut squash into uniform-sized strips ensures even cooking, resulting in crispy fries.
- Cajun Seasoning: You can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce in both the fries and the dipping sauce. Taste as you go to find your perfect level of heat.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the butternut squash fries in advance, toss them in the seasoning, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saving option for parties or gatherings.
Cajun Butternut Squash Fries are a delightful departure from ordinary potato fries. With their spicy kick and sweet undertones, they make for a unique and satisfying snack or side dish. The crispy exterior paired with the creamy, spicy Cajun dipping sauce creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fries or simply want to spice up your snacking routine, these Cajun Butternut Squash Fries are sure to please your palate. Enjoy the heat, savor the flavor, and indulge in this delicious twist on a classic favorite.
