Roasted Delicata Squash with Crispy Onions

Fall is squash season, and delicata squash is one of the most underrated gems in the kitchen.

With its tender skin, creamy interior, and rich, sweet flavor, delicata squash is not only easier to prep than butternut or acorn squash, it also roasts up beautifully.

And when you add crispy onions? You’ve got a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for everything from casual dinners to holiday feasts.

We’ll show you how to roast delicata squash to golden perfection, add a crunchy onion topping for contrast, and serve it up in ways that go far beyond the basics.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe

• Crispy onions add irresistible texture and flavor
• No peeling necessary, just slice and roast
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
• Ready in under 40 minutes
• Perfect for fall dinners, Thanksgiving, or meal prep

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make roasted delicata squash with crispy onions, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients:

• 2 medium delicata squash, washed and sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
• ½ cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional toppings: fresh thyme, chopped parsley, grated parmesan, or red pepper flakes

How to Cut and Prep Delicata Squash

One of the best things about delicata squash is that the skin is completely edible, which means minimal prep work.

1. Wash the squash thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
2. Trim the ends off with a sharp knife.
3. Slice the squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon.
4. Cut into half-moon slices, about ½-inch thick, for even roasting and perfect caramelization.

Tip: Use a stable cutting board and keep your fingers tucked to stay safe while slicing.

Roasting Instructions (Step-by-Step)

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Toss the squash slices in olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and maple syrup if using.
3. Spread the squash out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they roast, not steam.
4. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is golden brown and tender.
5. Sprinkle crispy onions over the squash during the last 5 minutes of baking, allowing them to warm and crisp further without burning.
6. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra caramelization.

How to Make Homemade Crispy Onions (Optional)

If you prefer to make your own crispy onions from scratch, it’s easy:

1. Thinly slice one medium yellow onion.
2. Toss the slices with ¼ cup flour (or gluten-free alternative), a pinch of salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the onions in batches until golden and crisp.
4. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Let cool completely before using.

These can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted delicata squash with crispy onions is incredibly versatile. Here are a few favorite ways to serve it:

• As a side dish with roasted chicken, pork chops, or turkey
• On top of a fall salad with arugula, goat cheese, dried cranberries, and walnuts
• As part of a grain bowl with quinoa, kale, and tahini dressing
• On toasted sourdough with whipped feta or hummus
• As a Thanksgiving side dish, alongside stuffing and cranberry sauce

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy texture of the onions. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the onions soggy.
• You can freeze roasted delicata squash without the onions, but note that the texture may soften upon thawing.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I freeze this dish?

Delicata squash can be frozen after roasting, but the texture softens slightly. Don’t freeze with the crispy onions – they’ll lose their texture.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can roast the squash a day ahead and reheat just before serving. Add the crispy onions fresh to preserve their crunch.

What can I use instead of crispy fried onions?

You can use caramelized onions, toasted panko breadcrumbs, or even crispy shallots for a similar crunch.