Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best ingredients for oven roasted delicata squash , what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Delicata Squash – Look for ones that feel firm and heavy for their size. You can find them at many grocery stores and farmers markets in the fall. The average weight is about 2 pounds each, but this delicata squash recipe will work with larger or smaller ones, too. Olive Oil – You’ll need a drizzle of olive oil to coat the delicata squash slices, but you can easily substitute it with avocado oil or any neutral cooking oil you have. Garlic Powder – Although optional, I recommend seasoning with garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor. Sea Salt & Black Pepper
See variations below for other seasoning ideas!
How To Cut Delicata Squash
You can roast delicata squash by simply cutting it in half and removing the seeds, but I prefer to slice it into half moons for more caramelized edges. It’s easy to do:
How To Cook Delicata Squash
This section shows how to roast delicata squash, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card. There’s no need to peel it. It’s also softer than other winter squash, making it easier to cut.
Recipe Variations
This is a very basic delicata squash recipe, but you can easily customize it with different flavors. Try these exciting twists to your new favorite fall side dish: You can line the pan with foil or parchment paper if you like, but parchment paper will reduce browning. If using foil or a bare sheet pan (non stick only), brush it with some extra oil before adding the squash.
Herby – Before roasting, toss delicata squash with fall herbs like dried or fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of fresh herbs or 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs. Apple – Add apple slices (1-2 apples) and a sprinkle about 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon onto the delicata squash before roasting for a combination of sweet and savory flavor. Maple Pecan – When there is about 5 minutes left of roasting time, drizzle the delicata squash with 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup (or try my natural sugar-free maple syrup) and top with 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for a sweet and nutty taste. Spiced – Whisk together warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and sprinkle on the squash before roasting. Cranberry – Before roasting, add 1/2 cup fresh cranberries over the top and roast them together. Drizzle with 2-3 tablespoons of maple syrup in the last few minutes of roasting. Stuffed – To make stuffed delicata squash, roast it halved instead of sliced. Then, you can stuff it with the same cranberry sausage filling I use for stuffed acorn squash (or see that post for other stuffing ideas).
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep leftover squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also repurpose leftovers by tossing them into a winter salad or kale salad, or replace the butternut squash in butternut squash salad. Reheat: You can reheat delicata squash recipes in the microwave, but they can dry out a bit. The oven at 350 degrees F works better. Freeze: For uncooked squash, slice and seed it, then cut it into desired portions and freeze for up to 12 months. For cooked squash, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or zip lock bag in the freezer for up to 6-8 months.
What To Serve With Roasted Delicata Squash
Not sure what dishes pair perfectly with roasted delicata squash? I’ve got you covered with some tasty ideas:
Chicken – Try it with spinach stuffed chicken or garlic butter chicken for a show-stopping meal that’s surprisingly easy. You can also just keep it simple with baked chicken leg quarters (you can pop them in the oven at the same time you’re roasting delicata squash) or hands-off Crock Pot chicken thighs. Seafood – To complement the sweet and savory flavors of the squash, serve it with naturally sweet crab legs or crispy coconut shrimp. If you prefer fish, make buttery pan fried salmon or pan fried cod. Pork – Sweeter sides like this one always pair really well with quick and easy air fryer pork chops (or baked pork chops instead), or a juicy pork steak. Beef – You can’t go wrong with a tender sirloin steak, or try prime rib roast or beef tenderloin for the holidays.
More Winter Squash Recipes
Love delicata squash recipes? Try some of my other ways to use winter squash: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. Nutrition info does not include optional garlic powder.
