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Creamy Maple Roasted Delicata Squash with Goat Cheese

creamy maple roasted delicata squash with goat cheese - featured image

A simple, comforting side dish featuring tender roasted delicata squash glazed with maple syrup and topped with tangy, melted goat cheese. Ready in under 45 minutes with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (real maple syrup)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup fresh goat cheese (crumbled or log)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Slice off the top and bottom to create flat bases, then cut the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds.
  3. Slice each half into half-inch thick half-moon shapes.
  4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. Place squash slices on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss with hands to coat evenly.
  6. Drizzle maple syrup over the squash.
  7. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until squash is tender and edges are golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven and immediately crumble goat cheese over the hot squash. Add fresh thyme if using.
  9. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes to melt cheese further, watching closely to prevent burning.
  10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Top with toasted nuts if desired.

Notes

Do not peel the delicata squash; the skin is edible and tender. Use real maple syrup to avoid burning, as artificial syrups have lower smoke points. Add goat cheese at the end of cooking to prevent it from separating or burning. This dish does not freeze well.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, roasted squash, maple syrup, goat cheese, vegetarian side dish, easy dinner, fall recipes, gluten-free