Print

Crispy Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings

crispy maple roasted delicata squash rings - featured image

Crispy, caramelized delicata squash rings with a maple glaze and panko coating. An easy, crowd-pleasing fall side dish that’s healthy and indulgent.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional garnish)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional garnish)
  • Pomegranate seeds (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends, then slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Use your fingers to gently push out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until uniform and slightly frothy. In another shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Working one ring at a time, dip each squash ring into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Then place it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to coat both sides. Place coated rings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer with space between each.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, and melted butter until smooth.
  6. Drizzle the maple glaze evenly over all the coated squash rings.
  7. Roast for 12 minutes. Remove from oven, flip each ring using tongs, and drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the rings. Return to oven for another 10-12 minutes, until deep golden brown and tender.
  8. Let rings cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh thyme or flaky sea salt if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Slice evenly for even cooking. Don’t skip the egg wash—it helps the panko stick. Use a wire rack on the baking sheet for extra crispiness. Watch the maple syrup carefully to prevent burning. Double the batch for crowds. Season with flaky sea salt right after roasting for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple roasted, crispy squash rings, fall side dish, easy squash recipe, vegetarian side dish