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Easy Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings Recipe

maple roasted delicata squash rings - featured image

These maple roasted delicata squash rings are a quick and easy side dish that’s perfect for entertaining. Sliced into rings and tossed with a sweet maple glaze, they roast up with crispy edges and tender centers, making them an unforgettable crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal preferred; reduce to ¾ teaspoon if using table salt)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 4–5 fresh thyme sprigs (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Flaky sea salt (for finishing, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper if desired.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly, pat dry, and cut off about ¼ inch from each end. Slice crosswise into rings about ½-inch thick. Remove any loose seeds with your fingers (a few leftover seeds are fine).
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Add the squash rings to the bowl and toss gently with your hands or a silicone spatula until every ring is well coated. Let sit for about 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange the rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring. Drizzle any remaining maple mixture over the top. Tuck the fresh thyme sprigs between the rings.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes. Do not open the oven door during this time.
  7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully flip each ring using a metal spatula. Return to the oven and roast for another 8-12 minutes, until the rings are deeply caramelized and edges are crispy.
  8. Let the rings cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, discard the thyme sprigs, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan—rings should be in a single layer to caramelize properly. Cut uniform ½-inch rings for even cooking. Let rings rest 2-3 minutes after roasting to set the glaze. For extra crispy rings, roast the full 12 minutes after flipping. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Freezing is not recommended.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple roasted squash, roasted squash rings, easy side dish, fall recipe, Thanksgiving side, vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan