How to Cook Delicata Squash: Easy Roasting Method
Learn how to cook delicata squash with this easy roasting method! Spoiler alert: No peeling necessary!
Do you have a favorite squash? I know butternut is a common go-to and would probably get the vote Miss Popular, but delicata squash has my heart.
And it’s not just because you don’t have to peel it (you can eat the skin!).
Although, I’d be lying if I pretended that wasn’t part of my infatuation with it. Aside from that, I love it’s sweet and smooth texture and the ease of preparation. Alright, maybe I really do love the fact that you don’t have to peel it.
I’m really excited about a recipe I have coming up Wednesday using this method of cooking delicata squash – I think you guys are going to go crazy over it. In the meantime, we need to cover the basics. You can cook delicata squash in the same way I taught you how to cook acorn squash, but I prefer roasting it in slices like this recipe describes. I haven’t tried making it in the slow cooker yet (mostly because I love this method so much), but I’m sure you could! I love cooking butternut squash in the slow cooker.
So, let’s get down to business: How to cook delicata squash.
- WASH IT. I know I’ve gone on tirades about washing your fruits and vegetables in the past, but here it is extra important because you’ll be eating the skin of the squash. Give it a good scrub with a brush and make sure it’s nice and clean.
- Cut off both ends so you have flat surfaces.
- Cut down the center (the long way).
- Scoop out the seeds – I use a grapefruit spoon to get this job done quickly and easily.
- Cut into thin slices (half moons). Obviously, the thinner you slice them, the faster they will cook. The most important thing is to make sure they’re all even thickness so they cook at the same speed.
- Toss or spray with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and then roast. I roast it at 425°F until it’s nearly burnt.
When you roast delicata squash like this, it gets super crispy. If you’re a person that craves salty, crunchy things like chips, this is the recipe for you. I sometimes eat this stuff with my hands like they are chips! Is that gross? Real life people, sometimes a fork just isn’t necessary, and in this case it’s not.
What you’ll need for this recipe:
- a great sharp knife
- grapefruit spoon (it’s the best way to scrape out the seeds)
- parchment paper sheets for easy clean up
- a scrub brush to clean the squash (I LOVE this one)
How to Cook Delicata Squash: Easy Roasting Method
Learn how to cook delicata squash with this easy roasting method! Spoiler alert: No peeling necessary!
Ingredients:
- 1 delicata squash
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (more or less to taste)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Scrub the outside of the squash with a brush until very clean. Cut ends off to create two flat edges. Cut in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
- Cut into 1/4- to 1/2-inch slices, keeping the size of the slices consistent.
Rub, toss, or spray with olive oil so both sides of each slice are coated with oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and spread onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet in a single layer. - Place in preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes. Flip each slice over and roast for another 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Enjoy immediately.
Note: Both cooking time and yield will depend on the size of the squash.
Nutrition Information
Yield: 2 servings, Serving Size: 1/2 delicata squash
- Amount Per Serving:
- Calories: 84 Calories
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 419mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 2g
Verdict: It’s my favorite!
Husband’s take: Delicata squash hasn’t always been his favorite (he still insists on peeling off the skin), but the last few times I’ve made this, I’ve left it in the oven just a touch longer so it gets ultra-crispy and he devours it.
Changes I would make: None are necessary but sometimes I like to sprinkle a bit of chili powder on (you’ll see why if you come back on Wednesday).
Difficulty: Learning how to cook delicata squash is EASY!
Hi, I'm Rachel! This site features a wide variety of recipes with one common thread: easy preparations. I love creating accessible and delicious food that will please the whole family. Hope you enjoy! (
sounds good–would be a great way to make acorn squash, too
For sure!
I love roasted squash like this and I totally eat it with my hands, too! You’re not crazy! :)
Just made this tonight – really a nice flavor! I love that it’s so creamy on the inside but sort of sweet on the outside.
So happy to hear that you love this as much as we do!
Made this last night, cooked till browned, but not crispy and my 2yo loved it!
So happy to hear that!
great tasting and so cute!! I served them on a salad
They’re delicious on a salad! Thanks for taking the time to come back and leave a comment!
I love this. Is there a way to store it so it keeps its texture?
It does get soft when you store it in the fridge. I recommend reheating either in a dry frying pan, or in the oven or toaster oven to help regain some crispness. It’s not exactly the same when you reheat it, but it’s still tasty!
can delicata be frozen and how
I haven’t tried freezing delicata – let me know if you try it! I think it may lose some of its texture after you thaw it but I’d love to know if you try it!