Fall brings a bounty of wonderful flavors, but few are as delightful and easy to prepare as Roasted Delicata Squash. If you’re looking for a simple, healthy, and incredibly versatile side dish, you’ve found it. This recipe will show you how to achieve perfectly tender, caramelized squash rings that will become a staple on your autumn table.
We’re covering everything from how to pick the perfect squash to cutting it safely. Plus, I’ll share my two favorite ways to prepare it: a savory garlic-herb version and a sweet maple-cinnamon version. Let’s get roasting!
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe
- Incredibly Easy: This recipe is perfect for beginners. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s practically foolproof.
- No Peeling Required: The best part about delicata squash is that the skin is completely edible! It’s thin and tender, saving you a ton of prep time.
- Naturally Sweet & Nutty: Delicata squash has a rich, nutty flavor reminiscent of sweet potatoes and butternut squash. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness.
- Versatile Side Dish: It pairs beautifully with almost any main course, from roast chicken to pasta.
What is Delicata Squash?
Delicata squash is a type of winter squash known for its long, oblong shape and creamy yellow skin with green stripes. Its flavor is often compared to a mix of corn, pumpkin, and sweet potato. Unlike its tougher cousins like acorn or butternut squash, the skin on a delicata is thin and tender enough to eat after roasting.
Do You Need to Peel Delicata Squash?
Absolutely not! This is one of the biggest advantages of cooking with delicata squash. The skin is not only edible but also delicious and packed with fiber. Just give the squash a good wash and you’re ready to go. This makes the preparation process quick and painless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You only need a few pantry staples.
For a Simple, Base Recipe:
- Delicata Squash: Look for one that is firm with no soft spots or blemishes.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor and helps with caramelization.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings are all you need to let the squash’s flavor shine.
For the Savory Garlic Herb Version:
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, aromatic depth.
- Dried Thyme or Rosemary: These herbs complement the earthy flavor of the squash perfectly.
For the Sweet Maple Cinnamon Version:
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
- Cinnamon: A classic warm spice that makes this dish feel like autumn.
- A pinch of Nutmeg: Optional, but adds a lovely warmth.
How to Cut Delicata Squash
Cutting a delicata squash is much easier than other winter squashes. Follow these simple steps for perfect rings.
- Wash and Dry: First, thoroughly wash and dry the outside of the squash.
- Trim the Ends: Use a sharp chef’s knife to carefully slice off the top stem and the bottom end. This creates a stable base.
- Slice in Half: Stand the squash on its wider end and slice it in half lengthwise.
- Scoop the Seeds: Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each half. You can discard these or save the seeds for roasting!
- Cut into Rings: Place each half cut-side down on your cutting board. Slice crosswise into ½ to ¾-inch thick half-moon shapes.
How to Make Roasted Delicata Squash
Now for the main event! Roasting delicata squash couldn’t be easier.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Season the Squash: Place the sliced delicata squash in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Add Your Flavors: For the savory version, sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. For the sweet version, toss with maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg. Toss everything again until the squash is well-coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the squash onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the squash to steam instead of roast. Use two pans if necessary.
- Roast to Perfection: Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The squash is done when it’s tender and you can easily pierce it with a fork, and the edges are beautifully golden and caramelized.
Tips for the Best Roasted Delicata Squash
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give the squash plenty of space on the baking sheet. This is the key to getting those delicious crispy, caramelized edges.
- High Heat is Key: Roasting at 425°F ensures the squash cooks through while the exterior gets nicely browned.
- Slice Uniformly: Try to cut your squash rings to a similar thickness so they cook evenly.
- Flip Halfway: Flipping the pieces ensures both sides get equally caramelized.
What to Serve with Delicata Squash
This versatile side dish pairs well with a variety of main courses. It’s a fantastic addition to any fall or winter meal.
- Roasted Meats: Serve it alongside a Garlic Butter Roast Chicken or Crockpot Whole Chicken.
- Pasta Dishes: It complements hearty pastas like this Autumn Sausage Pasta.
- Grain Bowls: Add it to a quinoa or farro bowl with some greens and a protein for a healthy lunch.
- Holiday Meals: It’s an elegant and easy side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. Try it with our Maple Glazed Carrots (coming soon) for a full fall spread.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover roasted delicata squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave, but for the best texture, I recommend reheating it in a 350°F oven or an air fryer for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Delicata Squash
Yes, absolutely! The skin of delicata squash is thin, tender, and completely edible once roasted. It also contains extra fiber. Just be sure to wash the squash well before cutting.
The squash is done when it is tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork and the edges are golden brown and caramelized. This typically takes 20-25 minutes at 425°F.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat in the oven or an air fryer to help it crisp up again.
Delicata squash has a sweet, nutty flavor that’s often compared to a cross between a sweet potato and butternut squash, with hints of corn. Roasting enhances its natural sweetness.
The ideal temperature is 425°F (220°C). This high heat allows the squash to become tender on the inside while achieving a beautiful caramelization on the outside without becoming mushy.
More Fall Recipes To Try
Did You Make This Recipe?
I hope you love this easy Roasted Delicata Squash recipe! If you give it a try, please leave a comment below and let me know which version you made. For more delicious recipes, be sure to follow me on Pinterest!
Roasted Delicata Squash
Roasted Delicata Squash (Two Easy Ways!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and dry the delicata squash thoroughly. Trim off the stem and bottom ends. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out all the seeds and pulp.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a cutting board and slice them into ½ to ¾-inch thick half-moon shapes.
- In a large bowl, toss the squash slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add either the garlic powder and thyme (for savory) or the maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg (for sweet). Toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange the seasoned squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until the squash is tender and the edges are golden brown and caramelized.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Don't Crowd the Pan: For the best caramelization, make sure the squash pieces have space. Use two baking sheets if needed.
