Print

Crispy Maple Glazed Roasted Delicata Squash: Easy 20-Min Side

crispy maple glazed roasted delicata squash - featured image
Print Recipe

This crispy maple glazed roasted delicata squash is the side dish that steals the show, with tender, creamy squash on the inside and edges so crispy they almost shatter when you bite into them. Ready in 20 minutes with no peeling required, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (for garnish, optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (for garnish, optional)
  • Pomegranate seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash and dry the squash. Pat it completely dry.
  3. Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Use a sharp knife and take your time.
  4. Scoop out the seeds and stringy center with a spoon.
  5. Slice the squash into half-moons: place each half cut-side down and slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
  6. Make the glaze: in a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and cayenne (if using).
  7. Add the sliced squash to the bowl and toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.
  8. Arrange the squash in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure no pieces overlap.
  9. Roast for 10 minutes.
  10. Flip each piece of squash using tongs and roast for another 8-10 minutes, until tender and edges are golden brown and crispy.
  11. Let the squash rest on the pan for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh herbs if using, and serve warm.

Notes

Don’t skip drying the squash; any water left on the surface will steam instead of caramelize. 425°F is non-negotiable for crispy edges. Give the squash room to breathe on the pan—crowding leads to steaming. Watch the last few minutes closely as the sugar in maple syrup can burn quickly. Use room temperature maple syrup for even coating. For extra crispy pieces, give them 2-3 more minutes but watch closely.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://twirltaste.com/crispy-maple-glazed-roasted-delicata-squash-easy-20-min-side/