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Best Easy Caramelized Maple Butter Delicata Squash Recipe

caramelized maple butter delicata squash - featured image

This caramelized maple butter delicata squash is a quick and easy fall side dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Tender squash slices are browned in nutty butter and maple syrup, then roasted to perfection for a sweet-salty-buttery flavor that’s pure comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: fresh thyme or sage leaves, red pepper flakes for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the delicata squash thoroughly. No need to peel.
  2. Slice the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and stringy pulp.
  3. Cut each half into ½-inch thick half-moon slices. Place in a large bowl.
  4. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon maple syrup and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Toss gently to coat. Let sit.
  5. Heat an oven-safe skillet (12-inch cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat. Add 3 tablespoons butter. Swirl until butter melts, foams, and browns with nutty aroma (about 2-3 minutes).
  6. Add remaining 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the pan. Stir quickly to combine (mixture will bubble).
  7. Carefully add squash slices in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until bottoms are deeply golden.
  8. Flip each slice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with black pepper.
  9. Transfer skillet to preheated oven. Roast for 8-10 minutes until squash is tender and edges are caramelized.
  10. Remove from oven. Let rest in pan for 2-3 minutes. If using fresh herbs, scatter over top.
  11. Transfer to serving platter. Drizzle remaining glaze from pan over top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t skip the browning step for the butter—it adds deep nutty flavor. Cut squash evenly (about ½-inch thick) for consistent cooking. Watch the heat to prevent burning the maple syrup. Let the pan rest after roasting to allow the glaze to thicken. For a vegan version, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple butter, caramelized squash, fall side dish, easy squash recipe, roasted squash, gluten-free, vegetarian