Name: Brown Sugar Delicata Squash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2-3 lbs delicata squash ((about 2 average sized squash)); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or more to taste); cooking spray

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This delicata squash recipe is roasted with brown sugar, maple syrup and cinnamon for a sweet and savory side that’s perfect for fall and winter meals.

When I’m looking for a quick and easy dish to pair with chicken and seafood, I make roasted butternut squash, roasted green beans or this easy delicata squash.

As the berries and melons start to fade away at the grocery store, in their place squash are popping up – squash of all shapes and colors and sizes! This delicata squash recipe is one of my favorite ways to do squash, with a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar, and plenty of caramelization from a trip through a hot oven.

What is delicata squash?

Delicata squash taste a lot like butternut squash, but they’re much easier to prep. Delicata squash are on the small side, usually they weigh about a pound each, and their skins are edible which means no peeling required! Simply scoop out the seeds, slice and bake. I like to toss my delicata squash in a mixture of olive oil, brown sugar and maple syrup, with a sprinkle of cinnamon for good measure. I roast my squash until it’s perfectly tender and that’s all there is to it, it’s really that simple!

How do you cook delicata squash?

In my opinion, the best way to cook delicata squash is to roast it in a hot oven. You can also steam or saute your squash. I prefer the roasting method because it’s hands-off and the squash gets perfectly caramelized every time.

I have to say, I had some major skeptics on my hands when I served this delicata squash recipe to the kids. After some coaxing, they tried it and were pleasantly surprised! They loved the sweetness and hint of cinnamon, so this recipe is definitely going into the permanent rotation. Anything to get the kids to eat their veggies right?!

How long does delicata squash stay fresh?

Whole delicata squash can be stored in a cool, dry spot for up to 4 weeks. Cut or cooked squash last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked squash, although it will have a softer texted once thawed and reheated.

Roasted Squash Variations

I love this recipe as-is, but you can add other ingredients to the mix to customize this dish to your tastes.

Spicy: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy dish.
Vegetables: You can add other veggies on the sheet pan such as red onions, sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips or butternut squash.

The next time you’re at the store, skip the butternut and try this delicata squash recipe instead. Then report back and tell me how the family liked it!

MORE GREAT SIDE DISHES

Roasted Delicata Squash Video

This delicata squash recipe is roasted with brown sugar, maple syrup and cinnamon for a sweet and savory side that's perfect for fall and winter meals.

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