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Perfect Roasted Delicata Squash with Easy Maple Brown Butter

roasted delicata squash with maple brown butter - featured image

This easy roasted delicata squash recipe features tender, caramelized rings with a nutty maple brown butter sauce. No peeling required, making it a quick and elegant fall side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium Delicata squash (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 68 fresh sage leaves
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt (for finishing)
  • ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries or pomegranate arils (optional)
  • Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the middle of the oven.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. Trim about ¼ inch from both ends of each squash.
  3. Slice the squash crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Remove the seeds with a small spoon or your fingers.
  4. Place the squash rings in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss gently until evenly coated.
  5. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange the squash rings in a single layer without overlapping.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes. Flip each ring using tongs, then roast for another 10-15 minutes until tender and golden brown on the edges.
  7. While the squash roasts, make the maple brown butter sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, swirling occasionally, until the butter foams and then forms small brown specks and smells nutty (about 3-4 minutes).
  8. Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the maple syrup and fresh sage leaves. The sage will crackle slightly.
  9. Transfer the roasted squash to a serving platter. Drizzle the warm maple brown butter sauce over the top. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  10. Add optional garnishes like toasted pecans or dried cranberries if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure crispy edges. Watch the brown butter closely as it can burn quickly. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Not recommended for freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted delicata squash, maple brown butter, easy fall side dish, no peel squash, vegetarian, gluten-free