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Crispy Parmesan Delicata Squash Rings: Easy Baked Recipe

crispy parmesan delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy Parmesan delicata squash rings are a quick and easy baked snack or side dish. With a shatteringly crunchy Parmesan crust and a tender, sweet interior, they’re made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium delicata squash (about 1 to 1.5 pounds / 450–680g)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 50g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. If you have a cooling rack, place it on top of the baking sheet.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. Trim off the tip and stem end. Slice the squash crosswise into rings about 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick.
  3. Use a small spoon or your fingers to remove the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  4. In a medium bowl or gallon-sized zip-top bag, combine the finely grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne if using. Mix well.
  5. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash rings and toss gently to coat evenly. Add the rings to the bag or bowl with the Parmesan mixture. Seal and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until every ring is evenly coated.
  6. Place the coated rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching.
  7. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each ring using a spatula. Continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until golden brown and the edges are dark and crispy.
  8. Let the rings rest on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before serving. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

For best results, grate your own Parmesan cheese from a block. Do not skip flipping the rings halfway through baking. If using an air fryer, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, crispy Parmesan squash, baked squash rings, easy squash recipe, gluten-free squash, vegetarian side dish