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Cozy Roasted Delicata Squash Rings with Maple Butter

roasted delicata squash rings with maple butter - featured image

These roasted delicata squash rings with maple butter are a quick and easy fall side dish that’s perfect for gatherings. With just five ingredients and under 30 minutes, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both impressive and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry. Trim off the very ends—about ¼ inch from each side. Slice the squash crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. Place the rings in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently with your hands until each ring is evenly coated. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. While the squash roasts, combine the butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne (if using) in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. Roast the squash for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven. Using a pastry brush or spoon, brush each ring generously with the maple butter mixture. Flip each ring and brush the other side. Return to the oven and roast for another 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and caramelized, and the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
  6. Remove from the oven. Brush with any remaining maple butter. Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted pepitas, fresh sage, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve immediately while warm and tender.

Notes

Don’t skip the pre-roast before adding maple butter—it helps caramelization. Watch the maple butter carefully to avoid scorching. For even cooking, slice rings ½-inch thick. If rings brown too quickly but aren’t tender, reduce oven to 400°F. For vegan version, use plant-based butter.

Nutrition

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