• 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®

Easy Healthy-ish Recipes

  • Recipe Index
  • The Basics
  • Free Meal Plans

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

4.40
/5
45 minutes mins
208 Comments
Jump to Recipe Video
By: Rachel GurkPosted: 10/30/2017Updated: 08/26/2022

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! 

Recipe Overview

Why you’ll love it: This squash is unlike any other squash and will satiate any craving for something salty and crisp!

How long it takes: 45 minutes
Equipment you’ll need: sharp knife, cutting board, roasting pan, oven
Servings: 2 per squash

Sliced and roasted delicata squash on a sheet pan.
Table of Contents
open
  • 1 Recipe Overview
  • 2 How to cook delicata squash
  • 3 What you’ll need for this recipe
  • 4 Get the Recipe: How to Cook Delicata Squash: Easy Roasting Method

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.

Uncooked and unsliced delicata squash.

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.

Roasted squash on a sheet pan.

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!

Roasted delicata squash on a sheet pan.
Recipe

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

4.40 from 644 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes mins
Cook Time: 35 minutes mins
Total Time: 45 minutes 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: 0.5delicata 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
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 (savory or sweet!)
  • 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. Denise says

    September 28, 2022 at 3:10 pm

    Always wanted to try this squash. Thanks for the recipe. It was surprisingly delicious and as I write this, I’m preparing two more. Love it!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      October 2, 2022 at 9:06 pm

      So happy to hear it!

      Reply
      • Wyman says

        October 18, 2022 at 10:15 pm

        5 stars
        Thanks for the recipe, it didn’t take long at all and turned out really well. Slicing it this way was definitely a great idea.

        Reply
        • Rachel Gurk says

          October 26, 2022 at 10:53 am

          So glad you liked it! Thanks for leaving a review!

          Reply
  2. Paul says

    September 21, 2022 at 4:17 pm

    Dear Rachel,
    Thank you soooo much for this recipe. I am a mere male novice cook but was able to follow this and make it. It came out like a heavenly blissful treat!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 23, 2022 at 11:44 am

      You’re welcome! I haven’t been able to get my hands on delicata yet this year, I can’t wait til I can!

      Reply
      • Barbara says

        October 6, 2022 at 11:06 pm

        So far in LA can only find them at Gelsons.

        Reply
  3. Barbie says

    September 20, 2022 at 6:12 pm

    Ignore my previous comments. I was able to “Pin” it through the left side pin option. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 23, 2022 at 11:45 am

      Oh good, I’m glad you got it to work! Will definitely investigate though, I want to make sure everything is running smoothly!

      Reply
  4. Barbie says

    September 20, 2022 at 6:11 pm

    Can’t wait to try it, it looks fabulous. Just wanted to let you know that the “Pin” is not working. I save everything to Pinterest, and am unable to do so here.

    Reply
  5. Jane says

    September 17, 2022 at 5:31 pm

    5 stars
    It was delicious! My new favorite squash variety and recipe!!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 23, 2022 at 11:56 am

      Same, same! Thanks for taking the time to leave a review!

      Reply
  6. Nanci says

    September 9, 2022 at 4:05 pm

    5 stars
    Very simple and quick to do! We love squash and are into trying all different kinds.

    Thanks so much for sharing!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 13, 2022 at 11:28 am

      You are welcome! Thanks for leaving a review!

      Reply
  7. Kasia says

    September 2, 2022 at 8:57 pm

    5 stars
    This was delightful, I made this for a warm snack after making simple sandwiches for dinner and it was a hit. My bf ate a whole plate ( and he’s very picky) and I also made some for my 22 month old haha, just took the skin off for him and left out the salt. Such a hit with everyone, that’s rare :)

    Wonderful recipe that I can’t wait to make again, wish I had another one to roast up! Thank you :)

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      September 6, 2022 at 7:54 am

      So glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for leaving a review!

      Reply
  8. deanna says

    February 2, 2022 at 4:10 pm

    so delicious..i did add chopped sage from the garden with the oil and salt and pepper..can’t wait to make it again and again..

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      February 4, 2022 at 9:34 am

      Oh I bet it’s delicious with sage!

      Reply
    • Ron says

      August 27, 2022 at 1:15 pm

      Deanna, that sounds great. I will try fresh sage in this recipe.

      Reply
  9. Frances says

    December 20, 2021 at 5:38 pm

    5 stars
    I love delicata, and add it to salads, have made eggs with delicata, etc. I often add some mint and thyme. A favorite. I am always sad whent the season to find them is over.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      December 21, 2021 at 3:28 pm

      Oh me too! I can’t find them anymore already. So sad!

      Reply
  10. Mary Renz says

    December 16, 2021 at 1:11 pm

    What do you look for when choosing one to buy?

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      December 17, 2021 at 2:53 pm

      It should be firm without any major defects. :) Hope that helps!

      Reply
  11. Victoria says

    November 28, 2021 at 5:50 pm

    5 stars
    This is my go-to recipe, delicious!

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      November 30, 2021 at 10:41 am

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

      Reply
  12. Rose says

    November 24, 2021 at 6:37 pm

    5 stars
    Fabulous! Delicious, nutritious, pretty presentation and easy clean up! What more could you ask for?! Even my veggie-reluctant husband commented on the flavor. A keeper for sure.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      November 28, 2021 at 9:49 am

      That’s definitely a win! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!

      Reply
  13. Prudie says

    November 19, 2021 at 1:23 pm

    Easy and great tasting

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      November 22, 2021 at 12:49 pm

      So glad it was a hit!

      Reply
  14. Lisa says

    November 14, 2021 at 10:54 am

    5 stars
    The recipe turned out great. Kept the skin on; it gave the roasted squash a nice chewy texture. The Delicata caramelized with the roasting. My 8 year old thought it was delicious. Spouse liked it a lot too.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      November 14, 2021 at 4:43 pm

      So glad you like it! It’s always a win when an 8 year old is eating squash!

      Reply
    • Dianne says

      November 20, 2021 at 7:43 pm

      Can you eat the skin?

      Reply
      • Rachel Gurk says

        November 22, 2021 at 12:47 pm

        Yes!

        Reply
  15. Kelli says

    November 7, 2021 at 8:12 am

    5 stars
    Best tasting I’ve ever had Delicata Squash, absolutely delicious. My old way of cooking it in halves tasted nothing remotely close to this, or the amazing texture. Will make repeatedly. Highly recommend.

    Reply
    • Rachel Gurk says

      November 8, 2021 at 9:20 pm

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

      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

Cilantro lime rice in a bowl garnished with a lime wedge.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Round white bowl filled with guacamole, one chip dipped in.

How to Make Guacamole

Pico de gallo in a white bowl.

The Best Pico de Gallo

Overhead view of jar of taco seasoning with a wooden spoon in it.

Homemade Taco Seasoning

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
© 2023 Rachel Cooks®
Site Credits Designed by Melissa Rose Design Developed by Once Coupled