• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Free Email Series!

5 Time and Stress Saving Cooking Secrets

Free email series of my best tips!

Visit my other Site: Pancake Recipes
  • About
  • Contact
  • Free Email Series!

    5 Time and Stress Saving Cooking Secrets

    Free email series of my best tips!

  • Visit my other Site: Pancake Recipes

Rachel Cooks®

Food, Family, Fun

  • Recipe Index
  • Popular
    • Instant Pot Pinto Beans
    • Green Beans with Bacon
    • Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes
    • Roasted Sugar Snap Peas
    • Beef Stew Seasoning
    • Chili Seasoning Recipe
    • Thousand Island Dressing
    • Poppy Seed Dressing
    • Copycat Panera Squash Soup
    • Chocolate Chip Blondies
    • Instant Pot Pork Loin Roast
    • Frosé
    • Best Chocolate Cake
    • Dill Vegetable Dip
    • Instant Pot Jasmine Rice
    • Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs
  • Learn to Cook
    • Crostini
    • Delicata Squash
    • Butternut Squash
    • Kabocha Squash
    • Spaghetti Squash
    • Guacamole
    • Croutons
    • Snap Peas
    • Baked Potatoes
    • Baked Bacon
    • Balsamic Glaze
    • Whipped Cream
    • Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
    • Simple Syrup
    • Pickled Red Onions Recipe
    • Toasted Pine Nuts
    • Roasted bone-in Chicken Breasts
    • Poached Chicken
    • Roasted Whole Chicken
    • Easy Cheese Sauce

Dinner Made Easy:

Slow Cooker

5 Ingredients

Grilling

Make Ahead

Sheet Pan

Tacos

Pizza

Home Recipes by Type Sides & Vegetables
GF Gluten-Free DF Dairy-Free VG Vegetarian 5I 5 ingredients or less

How to Cook Delicata Squash: Easy Roasting Method – with video

4.38
/5
45 mins
179 Comments
Jump to Recipe
By: Rachel GurkPosted: 10/30/2017Updated: 06/14/2021

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

Learn how to cook delicata squash with this easy roasting method! Spoiler alert: No peeling necessary!  Get the easy method on RachelCooks.com!

Learn how to cook delicata squash with this easy roasting method! Spoiler alert: No peeling necessary! 

Learn how to cook delicata squash with this easy roasting method! Spoiler alert: No peeling necessary!  Get the easy method on RachelCooks.com!

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 its 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.

Learn how to cook delicata squash with this easy roasting method! Spoiler alert: No peeling necessary!  Get the easy method on RachelCooks.com!

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.

  1. 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.
  2. Cut off both ends so you have flat surfaces.
  3. Cut down the center (the long way).
  4. Scoop out the seeds – I use a grapefruit spoon to get this job done quickly and easily.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Learn how to cook delicata squash with this easy roasting method! Spoiler alert: No peeling necessary!  Get the easy method on RachelCooks.com!

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)
 

Did you make this? Be sure to leave a review below and tag me @rachelcooksblog on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest!

Learn how to cook delicata squash with this easy roasting method! Spoiler alert: No peeling necessary!  Get the easy method on RachelCooks.com!
Recipe

Get the Recipe: How to Cook Delicata Squash: Easy Roasting Method

4.38 from 612 votes
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
2 servings
Print Rate Recipe
Prevent your screen from going dark
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)

Instructions

  • 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.

Notes

Note: Both cooking time and yield will depend on the size of the squash.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1/2 delicata squash, Calories: 84kcal, Carbohydrates: 8g, Protein: 2g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 419mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 3g

This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the USDA Food Composition Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.

© Author: Rachel Gurk
Did You Make This?Be sure to upload a photo & tag me at @RachelCooksBlog. I love seeing what you made!
Share A Photo! Tag on Insta Rate It
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!
Free email series

5 Time & Stress Saving Cooking Secrets

Free email series of my best tips!

FREE BONUS!

You May Also Like...

  • Two acorn squash halves on a white platter, both have been roasted and seasoned with salt and pepper.
    How to Cook Acorn Squash (two ways!)
  • Kabocha Squash Mash Image
    How to Cook Kabocha Squash - 3 methods!
  • Versatile, good for you, and delicious, these winter squash recipes will wow your family and friends! From basic how to recipes to surprising entrees, you'll be enjoying winter squash from September to May! 
    17+ Winter Squash Recipes & Ultimate Squash Cooking Guide
  • Kabocha Squash Mash Image
    How to Cook Kabocha Squash - 3 methods!
Can you think of a better way to start your day than with a decadent chocolate muffin with ribbons of cream cheese running through it? These chocolate cream cheese muffins make for happy, happy mornings! Get the recipe on RachelCooks.com!
Previous Post
Chocolate Cream Cheese Muffins (50% Whole Wheat)
Overhead of several prepared tacos, lined up on decorative surface.
Next Post
Vegetarian Tacos with Delicata Squash and Black Beans

Reader Interactions

Leave a Review Cancel reply

Recipe Rating




The maximum upload file size: 1 MB. You can upload: image. Drop files here

  1. Kimberly Kaufman says

    November 4, 2021 at 4:25 pm

    5 stars
    Simply delicious!!! I added a little garlic powder before roasting and a little vegan parm after roasting. Soooo good!! This will definitely be my go-to treat!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      November 5, 2021 at 7:44 am

      Great additions!

      Reply
  2. Jo Fitz says

    October 31, 2021 at 6:33 pm

    5 stars
    Lovely simple instructions, always turns out perfect. I’ve made it several times.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      November 1, 2021 at 10:16 am

      So glad to hear it! Thanks for taking the time to let us know!

      Reply
  3. Sandra Randell says

    October 29, 2021 at 1:38 pm

    This was my first time roasting Delicata squash. It turned out perfect. I sliced the squash a little thicker. It turned out so delicious I am going to make it again very soon.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      November 1, 2021 at 10:20 am

      So happy to hear you liked it! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!

      Reply
  4. Dorothy Jean Ownes says

    October 28, 2021 at 9:31 pm

    5 stars
    I added a tsp or two of thyme, a bit of garlic powder, and a bit of smoked paprika – so good, and I also baked til very crispy.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      November 1, 2021 at 10:22 am

      Great flavor additions! I bet it was delicious.

      Reply
  5. Maria says

    October 25, 2021 at 6:28 am

    5 stars
    Loved the recipe! Turned out delicious
    Thank you

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      October 26, 2021 at 8:38 am

      So happy to hear you liked it, Maria! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!

      Reply
  6. Evette Wilson says

    October 23, 2021 at 9:38 am

    5 stars
    My first time making delicate squash. Simple and delicious. The slices were crispy on the outside and so creamy in the center. I will definitely be making this again.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      October 26, 2021 at 8:41 am

      So glad to hear you liked it! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment, it means a lot!

      Reply
  7. Alice says

    October 16, 2021 at 10:30 pm

    If I want the squash crispy is it best to slice it on a Mandolin or a little thicker?

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      October 17, 2021 at 1:06 pm

      I haven’t tried it mandoline thin yet, I usually cut it about 1/4-inch thick. Crisp on the outside but still soft and tender on the inside.

      Reply
  8. Jillbee says

    October 2, 2021 at 4:06 pm

    5 stars
    This is just delicious! Made it last weekend and making again tonight!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      October 6, 2021 at 6:38 am

      So happy to hear it! Thanks for taking the time to leave a review!

      Reply
  9. DeeDee Hurd says

    September 24, 2021 at 6:45 pm

    5 stars
    Wow! This was a hit with me and my husband! He even snuck his fork and stole a few off my plate! Really tasty! Thanks for the good instructions, and for sharing your recipe!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 25, 2021 at 2:42 pm

      So glad you liked it! I just bought two delicata squash at the store yesterday – I haven’t made them yet this season and I’m excited!

      Reply
  10. Gayle says

    September 21, 2021 at 4:32 pm

    5 stars
    Just became my favorite squash recipe!! Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 23, 2021 at 3:00 pm

      It’s my favorite too! Glad you liked it!

      Reply
    • Peggy says

      October 12, 2021 at 2:23 pm

      4 stars
      I followed directions #1-6 that doesn’t specify how thick to make the slices and just looked at the picture to estimate the correct slice size. Mine came out tasty but nowhere near crisp! It was only after the meal that I came back to look at the site and found another set of ingredients and instructions #1-4.
      Please delete one of these or combine the two to mention that the squash needs to be very thin for it to come out crisp.

      Reply
      • Rachel Gurk says

        October 13, 2021 at 12:24 pm

        I appreciate your feedback, thank you. We’re slowly going back and updating old content and the two delicata squash posts are on our list. I just need a few clones to help me out. :)

        Reply
  11. Ilana Ostrovsky says

    September 19, 2021 at 1:53 pm

    4 stars
    Delicious and nutritious! Thank you for the recipe. We like to enjoy crispy and healthy snacks!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 23, 2021 at 2:54 pm

      So happy to hear it! Looks like it turned out great!

      Reply
  12. Anne says

    September 18, 2021 at 2:22 pm

    Can you freeze this?

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 23, 2021 at 2:52 pm

      I think that would be fine. It won’t be quite the same when you reheat it (it will be softer), but it should work!

      Reply
  13. Emily says

    September 17, 2021 at 7:07 pm

    5 stars
    This was so easy and delicious. Even good on day 2. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 23, 2021 at 2:51 pm

      So glad you liked it! Thanks for taking the time to leave a review, it means a lot!

      Reply
  14. Jane says

    September 15, 2021 at 2:33 pm

    Thanks for the great instructions!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 16, 2021 at 6:10 am

      I’m glad they were helpful!

      Reply
      • Pinky says

        October 23, 2021 at 12:26 pm

        5 stars
        Rachael, I printed out all of your resources & recipes about the various squashes to put in a drawer in my kitchen for easy access.

        Re: the delicata squash: Your recipe for roasting states to salt & pepper the squash. This is for a more savory roasted squash. What do you recommend for a sweeter version? What spices and how much of each to use? Thanks so much!

        Reply
        • Rachel Gurk says

          October 26, 2021 at 8:40 am

          I would just toss them in a little maple syrup when they’re done cooking. Adding sugar is tricky because it can burn easily while the squash is roasting. If you’d like to add spices that would give it a sweet touch, cinnamon is always a great choice. Try 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. A pinch of nutmeg would be tasty as well.

          Reply
  15. Jane says

    September 15, 2021 at 2:31 pm

    So delicious!
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 16, 2021 at 6:11 am

      Glad you enjoyed!

      Reply
Older Comments
Newer Comments

Primary Sidebar

Welcome!

Hi, I'm Rachel! Life can be complicated, cooking shouldn't be! I believe that you can put a delicious meal on the table without stressing. It's possible, and I'm here to help. Have a seat at my table...let's chat, eat, and have fun! Read more...

Air Fryer Instant Pot 30 Minutes One Pan Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Slow Cooker Vegetarian 5 Ingredients

Trending

Cooked salmon fillet on a grey-toned plate with cooked asparagus spears. The salmon is being flaked with a fork.

Air Fryer Salmon – easy and delicious!

Pizza pasta being scooped from a pan with a wooden spoon.

Pizza Pasta – 1 pan, 20 minutes

Image of a giant bowl of spaghetti with turkey meatballs.

Baked Turkey Meatballs

Asparagus Panzanella Salad

Seasonal

15 Healthy Sheet Pan Meals

Pile of crispy zucchini slices.

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

These easy vegetarian cauliflower tacos are full of flavor and protein! Even meat-lovers are going to flip over these fun tacos. Whether it's for Meatless Monday or a full-on vegetarian lifestyle, you're going to love these! They're also easy to make vegan. Make them tonight! 

Cauliflower Tacos with Chickpeas – Vegetarian

Overhead view of cauliflower steaks on a sheet pan with parmesan and chimichurri.

Cauliflower Steaks Recipe

Opens in a new window Opens an external site Opens an external site in a new window
Free Bonus!

5 Cooking Secrets to Save Time & Stress

Free email series of my best tips and recipes!

Featured On:

Back to Top
  • About
  • Contact
  • Press
  • Work with Me
  • Privacy
  • Accessibility
© 2022 Rachel Cooks®
Site Credits Designed by Melissa Rose Design Developed by Once Coupled