Print

Crispy Brown Butter Delicata Squash with Parmesan: An Easy Side

brown butter delicata squash - featured image

This easy side dish features delicata squash roasted with nutty brown butter and salty parmesan, creating crispy-edged coins with creamy centers. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for weeknights or holidays.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt completely, then continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter foams, subsides, and turns amber with brown specks (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat immediately and pour into a small bowl.
  3. Wash the delicata squash, cut off the stem and tip, slice in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds. Slice each half crosswise into 1/2-inch thick half-moons.
  4. Place the sliced squash in a large mixing bowl. Pour the browned butter over the top, scraping out all the brown bits. Add 1/2 teaspoon sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  5. Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces are not overlapping.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and flip each piece using tongs or a spatula.
  7. Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan evenly over the squash. Return to the oven and roast for another 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden at the edges, and the squash is tender.
  8. Remove from oven, let cool for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, fresh thyme leaves, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t rush the brown butter; medium heat gives better control. Cut squash evenly for uniform cooking. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure crispiness. Grate your own parmesan for best melting. Flip halfway through for even browning. Use unsalted butter to control saltiness. For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

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