Print

Cozy Baked Delicata Squash Rings with Parmesan

baked delicata squash rings with parmesan - featured image

These baked delicata squash rings are a simple yet impressive fall side dish. Tender, caramelized squash rings are coated in Parmesan and spices, then baked until crispy on the edges and absolutely addictive.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. Cut off both ends, then slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center of each ring.
  3. Place the squash rings in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently with your hands to coat evenly. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme leaves. Toss again until the spices are distributed.
  4. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the seasoned squash rings and toss very gently to coat.
  5. Arrange the rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, flip each ring carefully with a thin spatula, and return to the oven.
  7. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the rings are tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are deeply browned and crispy. Total bake time is 25-30 minutes.
  8. Remove from the oven and let rest on the pan for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with extra salt if needed, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra crispy rings, place a wire cooling rack on the baking sheet and put the rings on top. The air circulation helps the bottoms get crispy. You can prep the squash rings a few hours ahead by slicing and seeding them, then storing in the fridge. Toss with oil and seasonings right before baking. The Parmesan goes on last so it doesn’t get soggy.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, baked squash rings, Parmesan squash, fall side dish, easy roasted squash, crispy squash rings