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Crispy Maple Glazed Delicata Squash: Easy 30-Min Recipe

crispy maple glazed delicata squash - featured image

This crispy maple glazed delicata squash is roasted to perfection with caramelized edges and a sweet, sticky glaze. It’s a quick and easy side dish that converts even squash skeptics, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (use ¾ teaspoon if using table salt)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the rack in the middle position.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly under running water and pat dry. Cut off the stem end and blossom end, about ¼ inch from each end. Slice the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon.
  3. Place each half cut-side down on a cutting board and slice crosswise into ½-inch thick half-moons, aiming for uniform thickness.
  4. Place the squash slices in a medium mixing bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Add cinnamon if using. Toss gently with your hands until each slice is evenly coated.
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the squash slices in a single layer without overlapping.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes without opening the oven door.
  7. While the squash roasts, prepare the maple glaze: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine and set aside.
  8. After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Use tongs to flip each slice of squash over. Drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the squash slices.
  9. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for another 8 to 10 minutes, until the glaze is bubbling and the edges are deep golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the squash rest on the pan for 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining glaze from the parchment over the top.

Notes

Do not skip the initial dry roast; adding maple syrup at the beginning will result in soggy squash. Cut uniform slices for even cooking. Watch the glaze carefully during the final minutes as maple syrup burns quickly. Let the squash rest on the hot pan for a couple of minutes after roasting to allow the glaze to set. For best results, use real maple syrup, not pancake syrup.

Nutrition

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