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Cozy Roasted Delicata Squash Rings with Maple Butter

roasted delicata squash rings with maple butter - featured image

These cozy roasted delicata squash rings with maple butter are a simple, forgiving fall side dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Caramelized edges, tender centers, and a salty-sweet glaze make this a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for finishing
  • 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and dry it. Cut off both ends—about ¼ inch from each tip. Stand the squash upright and slice crosswise into rings about ½-inch thick. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from each ring using a small spoon or your fingers.
  3. In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk until fully combined. If using fresh thyme, add the leaves from 2 sprigs and stir.
  4. Arrange the squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops of each ring with the maple butter mixture. Flip each ring over and brush the other side. Use all of the glaze.
  5. Roast for 12 minutes. Remove the sheet from the oven and carefully flip each ring using a spatula. Brush any pooled glaze from the pan over the rings. Return to the oven and roast for another 10-12 minutes, until the edges are caramelized and golden brown and the centers are tender when pierced with a fork.
  6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. If you used thyme sprigs, remove them now. Let the squash rings rest on the pan for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and a few cracks of fresh black pepper. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan; use two baking sheets if needed. Watch the sugar—maple syrup burns easily, so use a moderate oven temperature. Pat the squash dry after washing to help the glaze stick. Use room temperature butter for better mixing. Save the seeds to roast as a snack.

Nutrition

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