Whether you’re a novice learning how to cook delicata squash or a skilled home chef looking for a simple side, Roasted Delicata Squash is a practically perfect preparation. There’s no need to peel this winter squash – simply roast with the skin on for crisp, caramelized edges. Maple syrup, butter, and fresh thyme add sweet and savory notes to this robust seasonal side dish.
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Delicata squash is the game-changing winter squash you probably didn’t know you were missing. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you say “I was today years old when I learned…”
Delicata squash is essentially the love child of butternut squash and acorn squash – and it’s their best versions of themselves. All of the good qualities, none of the annoying ones. Their offspring is nothing but star qualities. Right outta the gate. Raw roasted talent. Superstar.
That’s delicata squash. It’s got sweet, creamy flesh that cooks to tender perfection (like a butternut), but with a thin, edible skin that makes prepping and cooking ridiculously easy (like the acorn squash). Roast it and serve as a simple side, or serve it over seasonal greens and grains in a delicata squash salad.
So let’s start stockpiling delicata squash recipes together so our repository of winter squash recipes is just that much more equipped to get us through the cold months with full, happy bellies.
How to Cut Delicata Squash
Delicata squash skin is edible (and it’s delicious!) so you’ll first want to wash the skin thoroughly. Even if you don’t plan on eating the skin, it’s quite difficult to remove while raw, so it’s much easier to keep it on and simply cut away with your fork after roasting.
- Wash the squash under cool running water and scrub away any dirt or grit, then dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel.
- Use a sharp chef’s knife, trim ½″ from each end, then slice lengthwise to divide in half.
- Use a melon baller or spoon to scrape out the seeds and pulp.
- Position cut side down and cut into ½″-wide slices.
How to Make Roasted Delicata Squash
No kitchen hacks or special tools are required to make roasted delicata squash – simply scoop and slice! Similarly, you only need a few ingredients to make the flavor shine. Toss with maple syrup and melted butter to enhance the sweet notes in this mild winter squash. A sprinkle of salt and fresh thyme give a woody, savory contrast.
- Move an oven rack to the lowest position, then heat to 400°F.
- Whisk melted butter and maple syrup in a large bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Add the sliced delicata squash and toss to evenly coat.
- Arrange the squash in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet, leaving breathing room between each pieces. Sprinkle with salt.
- Transfer to the oven and roast for 25 minutes. Flip the slices halfway through and rotate the pan to ensure even cooking. The flesh will be soft and lightly caramelized when done.
- Garnish roasted delicata squash with fresh thyme or sage and serve right away. Enjoy!
Essential Notes and Tips
- Wash the outside well since the skin is edible. Dry thoroughly before cutting.
- Use a large, sharp chef’s knife – dull knives can slip. Safety first!
- Leave room in-between each piece on the baking sheet so the squash caramelizes, not steams.
- Roast delicata squash on the lowest rack, closest to the heat source, for great caramelization.
- Flip the pieces and rotate the pan halfway through the bake for even cooking
Serving Suggestions
- Meatless Monday: serve atop creamy risotto or orzo pasta with a simple tossed green salad.
- Weeknight Dinners: because it cooks quickly, delicata squash is a great option for weeknight meals. Serve it with sheet pan rosemary chicken and potatoes, parmesan crusted chicken, or pork chops.
- Sunday Supper: serve with herb roasted chicken and mashed potatoes.
- Holiday Meals: delicata squash is light and refreshing side for Thanksgiving dinner. Pair it with Beef Tenderloin for Christmas.
Did you make this roasted delicata squash? We’d love to know how it turned out! Leave a comment and a rating below, or share with your friends and fam!
Simple Roasted Delicata Squash
Description
Ingredients
- 2 whole delicata squash
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400°F with a rack in the lowest position (see Note 1). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prep the squash. Wash the skins (they’re edible!) then trim the ends and slice the squash lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds using a spoon or melon baller. Lay the squash cut side down and slice into ½” half-moons.
- Combine the butter and maple syrup in a large mixing bowl and whisk until well combined. Add the sliced squash, then toss gently with your hands until each piece is evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space in between each piece (see Note 2). Sprinkle with salt.
- Transfer to the oven and roast for 25 minutes. Halfway through, remove the baking sheet and flip the squash pieces. When returning the squash to the oven, rotate the pan to ensure even baking. The squash is done when the flesh is very soft and lightly caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or sage and serve right away.
Recipe Notes
- Note 1. Roast the squash on the lowest rack, closest to the heat source, for great caramelization.
- Note 2. Leave room in-between each slice to ensure the squash caramelizes, not steams.
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