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Crispy Parmesan Delicata Squash Rings: Easy Fall Side Dish

crispy parmesan delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy parmesan delicata squash rings are a quick and easy fall side dish, featuring sweet squash rings coated in a salty, crispy parmesan and panko crust, baked to golden perfection in under 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving, optional)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
  • Additional grated Parmesan (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends (about 1/4 inch from each tip) and discard. Slice the squash crosswise into rings about 1/2-inch thick.
  3. Use a small spoon or melon baller to gently push the seeds out of each ring.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
  5. Place the squash rings in a large bowl and drizzle with the olive oil. Use your hands to gently toss and coat each ring.
  6. Working one at a time, place each oiled ring into the coating mixture. Press gently so the coating adheres to both sides. Use your fingers to pat extra coating onto any bare spots.
  7. Place the coated rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching.
  8. Bake for 15-18 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip each ring carefully using a spatula. Bake for another 5-8 minutes until both sides are crispy and the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
  9. Optional: For extra crispiness, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  10. Serve immediately. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired, and squeeze lemon juice over the top before serving.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use a wire rack on the baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan; rings should not touch. Watch the salt as Parmesan is naturally salty. Let rings rest for 2-3 minutes after baking before serving. For an air fryer, lower temperature to 375°F (190°C) and check after 8 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, crispy parmesan squash rings, fall side dish, easy squash recipe, baked squash rings, vegetarian side dish