By: Merritt Allen

Sheet pan recipes can be a convenient way to make something tasty without much effort. This recipe is truly an easy and simple sheet pan bake, with only 3 steps to get you from cutting board to table. I was first introduced to delicata squash by a good friend, who showed me how this delicious vegetable could be cooked and use in many different ways. We used to enjoy it cooking it together in our little college apartment. In this recipe I pair the naturally sweet delicata squash with red onion, goat cheese, and the simple spice of garlic. These, when roasted, are elegant and very flavorful.

Notes and Tips For Sheet Pan Delicata Squash:

• I have made this recipe on both a sheet pan and in a cast iron skillet. Both are the same process and both turn out equally delicious. Take or pick and enjoy.

• I only use garlic, salt, and pepper in this recipe. I think these spices enhance the natural flavors of the squash and onions. Feel free to add in some other herbs like basil, thyme, or red pepper.

• If you choose to use a cast iron, try preheating it in your oven. Place it in the oven for about 5 minutes prior to placing the veggies in. This helps the dish cook faster and more evenly.

• This dish pairs well with many proteins, is great in salad, or even enjoyed on its own with a nice sprinkle of finishing salt.

Can You Eat Delicata Squash Skin?

• Yes you can eat the skin of Delicata squash. Unlike other squash skins like pumpkin, once cooked, the skin on delicata squash is soft and edible.

Do You Remove the Seeds From Delicata Squash?

• I recommend removing the seeds and toasting them. They are great crunchy toppers to salads or even this recipe.

• To toast delicata squash seeds, wash the pulp away, season with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake the seeds at 350F for around 15 minutes or until golden and crispy.

What Pairs With Roasted Delicata Squash?

• Delicata squash with goat cheese and red onion is an incredible side dish. The flavors are sweet and savory and they pair with so many other notes. I recommend a steak, a well simply seasoned chicken, or some roasted chicken thighs as some easy protein pairings. You can even add this side dish to salads for added warmth and flavor during the fall and winter months.

What Toppings Go With Sheet Pan Squash?

• Other than ample goat cheese, pairing your Delicata Squash and onions with fresh herbs is a great way to add flavor!

• Give this recipe a try with fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme. The notes from all three are super savory, cozy, and bright. Combined with the goat cheese, herbs are so good and the perfect addition.

What Substitutions Can I Use For Roasted Delicata Squash?

• Instead of Red Onion, you can use Shallots since they have a similar flavor profile. You can also use sweet yellow onions.

• Instead of goat cheese, you can use other creamy cheeses. Gouda, Gruyere, or cheddar cheese would all pair really well. Let me know what is your favorite cheese in the comments below!

How to Make Roasted Delicata Squash with Goat Cheese and Red Onion:

1. Prepare the Ingredients.

   1. Preheat the Oven to 375"F

   2. Lightly wash your Delicata Squash. Cut it in half short wise and then length wise.

   3. Scrape out the seeds and set aside for optional toasting.

   4. Slice the Delicata squash into 1/4” to 1/2” thick slices and add to a baking sheet.

   5. Thinly slice the red onion and add to the baking sheet with the squash

   6. Directly on the baking sheet: add the oil, salt, pepper, and garlic. Using a spoon or your hands, mix until everything is well combined.

2. Roast The Squash and Add the Goat Cheese

   1. Roast the squash and onion until the onion is beginning to crisp and the squash is fork tender, about 30 minutes.

   2. Remove from the oven and add immediately add the goat cheese, and any fresh herbs you may be using.

   3. Let Cool and Enjoy!