As the leaves start to change colors and the crisp autumn air sets in, our kitchens are filled with the warm, comforting aromas of roasted vegetables. And what’s more iconic of fall than the humble delicata squash? This sweet and nutty variety of winter squash is a staple of many seasonal recipes, from hearty soups to savory sides. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or an impressive show-stopping dish for your holiday gathering, we’ve got you covered with these 20 savory delicata squash recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Roasted Delicata Squash with Maple Glaze
Roasted Delicata Squash with Maple Glaze Recipe
Summary: This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of delicata squash by roasting it to perfection and pairing it with a sticky maple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 delicata squash, halved lengthwise
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the squash is roasting, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
6. Remove the squash from the oven and brush with the maple glaze.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Stuffed Delicata Squash with Quinoa and Kale
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted delicata squash with the earthiness of quinoa and kale, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium delicata squashes
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each squash half with the quinoa mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Top each squash with kale leaves and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until squashes are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Sprinkle with feta cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Delicata Squash and Apple Soup
This comforting soup combines the sweetness of delicata squash with the crunch of apples, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening. This recipe is easy to make and yields a deliciously creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium delicata squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped (such as Granny Smith)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Place on a baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Roast the squash for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add cumin and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute.
5. Scoop out the roasted squash and add to the pot along with broth, apple, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup is creamy and heated through.
7. Blend the soup to desired consistency. Add heavy cream or half-and-half if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Delicata Squash Fries with Garlic Aioli
Transform humble squash into a crispy, addictive snack with this easy recipe. Perfect for game day gatherings or as a healthy alternative to regular fries.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium delicata squash
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash into fry shapes, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Toss squash with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl.
6. Serve warm squash fries with garlic aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Delicata Squash and Sage Risotto
Delicata Squash and Sage Risotto Recipe
This creamy risotto recipe combines roasted delicata squash with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy autumn evening. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 large delicata squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet with the cut side up. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth and white wine (if using), and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process with remaining broth and wine, allowing rice to cook and creamy.
5. Stir in butter, chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Serve warm with roasted squash on top and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Spiced Delicata Squash and Chickpea Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweet flavors of roasted delicata squash with the earthy taste of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a flavorful blend of spices. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium delicata squash, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the squash cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine the roasted squash, chickpeas, and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Delicata Squash and Caramelized Onion Tart
Delicata Squash and Caramelized Onion Tart
This sweet and savory tart is perfect for a seasonal dinner party or a cozy night in. Delicata squash’s nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the rich caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 large delicata squash
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup caramelized onion jam (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the squash: Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Caramelize the onions: In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat with butter until golden brown and caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Assemble the tart: Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place the roasted squash on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around it. Spoon caramelized onions over the squash.
5. Fold and bake: Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Grilled Delicata Squash with Herb Butter
Savor the sweetness of summer with this simple yet impressive side dish. Roasted delicata squash pairs perfectly with a compound herb butter, adding a burst of fresh flavor to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium delicata squashes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the squashes in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Grill squash for 15-20 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with chopped parsley, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread herb butter onto grilled squash halves, serving warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Delicata Squash and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted Delicata squash with the earthiness of black beans, all wrapped up in a flavorful enchilada dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium Delicata squash
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the black beans, cumin, and chili powder; cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the enchiladas by spreading some of the bean mixture onto each tortilla, then topping with roasted squash and rolling up. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes + assembly time
Creamy Delicata Squash Pasta with Brown Butter
This autumnal pasta dish combines the natural sweetness of delicata squash with the nutty flavor of brown butter, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 large delicata squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the squash cubes with 1 tbsp butter and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until smooth and heated through.
6. Combine cooked pasta, roasted squash, and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Delicata Squash and Sausage Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of fall with the comfort of stuffed pasta, featuring roasted Delicata squash and Italian sausage. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo shells
– 1 medium Delicata squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the squash cubes on a baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook the shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked squash, sausage mixture, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and egg in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each shell with the squash-sausage mixture and place in a baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes.
Delicata Squash and Goat Cheese Flatbread
A flavorful and healthy flatbread recipe that combines the sweetness of delicata squash with the tanginess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 Delicata squash, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 flatbread or pita bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash, onion, garlic, and honey with olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until squash is tender.
3. Meanwhile, toast the flatbread according to package instructions.
4. Spread goat cheese on toasted flatbread. Top with roasted squash mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Delicata Squash and Cranberry Grain Bowl
This autumn-inspired grain bowl combines roasted delicata squash with sweet cranberries, crunchy grains, and a tangy dressing for a nutritious and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 delicata squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped pecans, crumbled goat cheese, or dried cranberries for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Pour over roasted squash and toss to coat.
4. Combine cooked grains, roasted squash, and cranberries in a bowl. Top with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Delicata Squash and Lentil Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry combines the sweetness of delicata squash with the nutty taste of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic spice blend. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium delicata squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the delicata squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes
Delicata Squash and Pecan Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of mushrooms with the comforting warmth of roasted squash and the crunch of toasted pecans, creating a delightful autumnal dish perfect for any season.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 delicata squash, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed squash, chopped pecans, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the squash-pecan mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with thyme leaves.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Delicata Squash and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Delicata Squash and Spinach Stuffed Chicken: A flavorful and nutritious main dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 medium delicata squash, roasted and diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together roasted delicata squash, spinach leaves, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the squash-spinach mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Delicata Squash and Bacon Hash
This hearty hash combines sweet roasted delicata squash with crispy bacon, onions, and potatoes, perfect for a fall or winter breakfast or brunch. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium delicata squash, peeled and cubed
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2-3 Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the diced onion to the same skillet and cook until translucent.
5. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Once the squash is roasted, add it to the skillet with the bacon, onions, and potatoes. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Delicata Squash and Pear Salad with Walnuts
This autumn-inspired salad combines the sweetness of roasted delicata squash and pear with the crunch of walnuts, all tied together with a tangy vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 large delicata squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the delicata squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
4. Add diced pears to the bowl and toss to coat.
5. Once the squash is cooked, let it cool slightly before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
6. Add the roasted squash and chopped walnuts to the pear mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Delicata Squash and Coconut Milk Soup
Warm up with this creamy and comforting soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a chilly morning. Delicata squash adds natural sweetness, while coconut milk brings richness and creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 large delicata squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Roast the squash for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Scoop out the roasted squash flesh and add to the pot.
7. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
8. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Delicata Squash and Rosemary Focaccia
This savory focaccia is infused with the warm flavors of delicata squash, rosemary, and olive oil. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large delicata squash
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Coarse sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and dice the squash into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
4. Gradually add warm water, olive oil, and chopped rosemary to form a sticky dough.
5. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
6. Place dough on a floured surface, shape into a rectangle, and dimple with fingers.
7. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with delicata squash! This season, try one (or two, or three…) of these 20 savory recipes that showcase its sweet and nutty flavor. From comforting soups and stews to creative twists on classic dishes, there’s something for everyone. Roast it with maple glaze, stuff it with quinoa and kale, or turn it into fries with garlic aioli – the possibilities are endless! Explore these mouthwatering ideas and make this fall season a delicious one.