Fall is a season of cozy flavors, and delicata squash might just be one of its best-kept secrets. Tender, sweet, and easy to prepare, it’s the perfect candidate for a simple yet irresistible side dish. Enter Garlic & Herb Breaded Delicata Squash — a quick, savory recipe that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with herbaceous, garlicky goodness.
Requiring just seven ingredients and thirty minutes, this dish is an easy win for busy weeknights, festive holiday dinners, or whenever you’re lucky enough to spot delicata squash at the market.
A Simple Ingredient List, Big on Flavor
The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. You don’t need anything fancy — just a handful of pantry staples and a little bit of fresh squash magic:
- Delicata squash: Sweet, tender, and no peeling required
- Olive oil: Helps the breading stick and adds richness
- Panko breadcrumbs: The key to achieving that satisfying crunch
- Nutritional yeast: Adds a subtle, cheesy flavor without any dairy
- Garlic powder: For that warm, savory depth
- Dried rosemary: Brings an earthy, aromatic touch
- Sea salt: To round everything out
Fresh chopped parsley is optional but highly recommended if you want a pop of green for extra freshness and visual appeal.
How to Bring It All Together
Making this roasted delicata squash couldn’t be easier — it’s all about layering flavors and textures in a few quick steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Breading
Start by mixing your dry ingredients: panko breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, dried rosemary, garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir them together in a shallow bowl or plate. If you’re using parsley, toss that in too. It not only looks beautiful but adds a subtle brightness to the breading.
Step 2: Slice the Squash
Delicata squash has the huge advantage of having edible skin, which means no peeling needed. Just slice it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and cut it into half-inch thick slices. Think sturdy little half-moons ready to be dressed up.
Step 3: Coat the Squash
First, dip each slice of squash into a bowl of olive oil, making sure it’s coated on all sides. Then, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, covering every nook and cranny with that garlicky, herby goodness.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Lay the breaded squash slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced out so they roast, not steam. Pop them into a hot oven and in about 15 minutes, you’ll have golden, crispy, and perfectly tender pieces of squash that are almost too good to share.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s hard to overstate how satisfying these breaded delicata squash slices are. They hit all the right notes:
- Crispy on the outside thanks to the panko and olive oil
- Tender and sweet inside, showcasing the natural flavor of delicata squash
- Herby and aromatic, with rosemary weaving through every bite
- Garlicky, bringing that cozy, crave-worthy comfort
- Lightly cheesy, courtesy of the nutritional yeast
- Quick and easy, with almost no prep required
Honestly, once you try a piece, you’ll be reaching for more before you even realize it. (In our test kitchen, they barely made it off the baking sheet!)
Perfect Pairings for a Full Fall Feast
While these garlicky squash slices can absolutely hold their own as a snack or appetizer, they also make a wonderful companion to a wide range of meals. Some ideas to complete your spread:
- Simple Vegetable Soup: The squash’s crunchy coating is the perfect contrast to a warm, brothy soup.
- Vegan Sausage: A hearty, protein-packed pairing, especially with soy- and gluten-free options.
- Lemon & Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs: For those looking to add a bit of bright, savory protein to the plate.
Or serve them alongside a big autumn salad for a satisfying, colorful meal.
Tips for the Best Results
- Space it out: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Giving the squash slices room to breathe ensures they get crispy instead of soggy.
- Use good olive oil: Since the oil plays a big role in both flavor and crisping, opt for a quality extra-virgin olive oil.
- Watch the bake time: Every oven is a little different, so start checking at the 12-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
A Fall Favorite You’ll Make Again and Again
Garlic & Herb Breaded Delicata Squash is more than just a side dish — it’s a celebration of fall flavors made easy. With its golden crunch, tender bite, and savory seasoning, it’s sure to become a staple in your autumn and winter recipe rotation.
Perfect for busy weeknights, festive gatherings, or just when you need something hearty and wholesome, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. So next time you see delicata squash at the store, grab a few — you’ll be glad you did.
Happy roasting, and enjoy every crispy, garlicky bite!
