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Crispy Maple Glazed Delicata Squash: Easy 30-Minute Side

crispy maple glazed delicata squash - featured image

Crispy-edged roasted delicata squash with a sticky maple glaze that caramelizes beautifully in a hot oven. This quick and easy side dish is ready in about 30 minutes and turns simple winter squash into something unforgettable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash delicata squash thoroughly, pat dry, trim off ends, cut in half lengthwise, and scoop out seeds. Slice into ½-inch thick half-moons.
  3. In a large bowl, toss squash slices with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange squash in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cut-side down, with space between pieces.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes without disturbing.
  6. While squash roasts, prepare maple glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  7. After 15 minutes, remove baking sheet from oven, flip each piece of squash, and drizzle or brush maple glaze evenly over all pieces.
  8. Return to oven and roast for another 10-13 minutes, until deep golden-brown and caramelized. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from oven, immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and let rest on pan for 2-3 minutes before serving. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra crispy edges, preheat the baking sheet in the oven for 5 minutes before adding the squash. Watch the glaze carefully during the final roasting minutes as it can burn quickly. For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple glazed squash, crispy roasted squash, easy fall side dish, 30-minute side, vegetarian side dish, gluten-free side dish