Name: Baked Delicata Squash Fries
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 delicata squash; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

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Are you looking for a healthier twist on fries? These baked delicata squash fries are the answer! Sweet, tender, and perfectly crispy, delicata squash fries are not only delicious but also super easy to prepare. With no peeling required, this recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a quick and nutritious side dish or snack.

These baked delicata squash fries are amazing! Who knew that healthy fries can taste so good!

Why You’ll Love Baked Delicata Squash Fries

Naturally Sweet and Flavorful: Delicata squash has a naturally sweet taste that pairs beautifully with savory or sweet seasonings. Each bite feels like a healthy indulgence!
No Peeling Required: The thin, edible skin of delicata squash saves you time and effort in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a quick recipe.
Beautiful Presentation: These fries naturally have a unique half-moon shape that adds elegance to your plate. They’re as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Healthy Alternative to Fries: Packed with nutrients, delicata squash fries are low in calories and a great option for anyone following gluten-free, vegan, or keto diets.
Easy to Customize: Whether you prefer them salty, spicy, or sweet, these fries adapt easily to your taste preferences. They’re perfect for any mood or occasion.

Look at these bright-orange delicata squash oven fries! Look at their unique shape – naturally shaped like a curly half-moons! So beautiful, these baked delicata squash fries are a feast for your eyes and stomach! And best of all, they are so good for you!

Ingredients for Baked Delicata Squash Fries

Delicata Squash – The star of the recipe! Naturally sweet with thin, edible skin that makes prep a breeze.
Olive Oil – Helps the fries crisp up beautifully in the oven while adding a subtle flavor.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, but you can adjust to taste or add other spices for variety.

For the exact measurements, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Bite into each delicata squash piece and taste the sweetness. This stuff is naturally sweet – nature made delicata squash this way! This squash is one of the sweetest squashes out there and is my favorite squash!

Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Baked Delicata Squash Fries

Oven – To perfectly roast the delicata squash fries until they’re golden and crispy.
Non-stick Baking Sheet – Ensures the fries don’t stick and are easy to flip or remove.
Parchment Paper – Makes cleanup quick and easy while providing a non-stick surface.
Knife – For cutting the squash into halves and slices.
Cutting Board – A sturdy surface to safely cut the squash.
Spoon – To scoop out the seeds easily.
Mixing Bowl – For tossing the squash slices with olive oil and seasonings.

Since I enjoy eating delicata squash so much, I make it several different ways :) If you own an Instant Pot, check out my Instant Pot delicata squash recipe, you’ll love it! You can also roast it in the oven without cutting into fries – take a look at my roasted delicata squash halves recipe. You can also make delicata squash puree same way as pumpkin puree, and then use it in any of the recipes that call for pumpkin puree.

Aside from it’s naturally sweet and smooth taste, another thing I love about delicata squash is the fact that it’s skin is thin and edible. This means you don’t have to peel delicata squash, and the less work for me the better :)

Making baked delicata squash fries is really easy. To cut delicata squash into the half-moon shape, you need to first cut delicata squash in half lengthwise, scoop out and discard the seeds, then slice the squash halves into 1/4-inch-thick slices. They’ll naturally be shaped like a half moon! Once you slice delicata squash into fries, toss them with olive oil and bake in pre-heated 400F oven for 30 minutes. When they are ready, sprinkle with salt, pepper and any of your favorite seasonings! They are great with cinnamon too! Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Serve these baked delicata squash fries as a healthy side dish alongside grilled chicken, baked fish, or a hearty veggie burger.
Pair them with your favorite dips like creamy horseradish, green onion dip, or a cottage cheese ranch for extra flavor.
Sprinkle with cinnamon and a touch of honey for a sweet treat.
Add them to a vibrant fresh tomato mozzarella salad for a pop of color and a boost of flavor.
Serve as a snack or appetizer for parties – they’re sure to impress your guests!

Tips for Success

Choose the Right Squash: Look for delicata squash that is firm, with no soft spots or blemishes. A vibrant, even color is a good indicator of freshness.
Uniform Slicing is Key: Cut the slices as evenly as possible to ensure they bake evenly. Uneven slices may result in some fries being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange the squash slices in a single layer on the baking sheet with space between each slice. Overcrowding can cause the fries to steam rather than roast, leading to less crispy results.
Experiment with Seasonings: While salt and pepper are classic choices, you can try other seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or cinnamon for a unique twist.
Keep an Eye on the Oven: Since ovens vary, check the fries a few minutes before the timer ends to ensure they don’t burn. You want a nice golden color with crispy edges.
Let Them Cool Slightly: Allow the fries to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the fries fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm and crispy.

Variations and Substitutions

Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the olive oil before tossing the squash. Pair it with a drizzle of honey after baking for a sweet-spicy kick.
Herby Flavor: Toss the fries with a mix of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a fragrant, earthy twist. You can also sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving.
Parmesan Coating: For a savory treat, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the fries before baking. It creates a golden, cheesy crust that pairs perfectly with the squash’s natural sweetness.
Cinnamon Sugar: Transform these fries into a dessert by sprinkling a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over them after baking. Pair with a vanilla yogurt dip for a decadent treat.
Alternative Oils: Swap olive oil for avocado oil, coconut oil, or even melted butter to experiment with different flavors and textures.
Seasonal Squash Substitutes: If delicata squash is unavailable, use butternut squash, acorn squash, or kabocha squash as substitutes. Adjust the slicing method and cooking time as needed.
Low-Sodium Version: Skip the salt and use salt-free seasoning blends for a heart-healthy option.
Vegan Dips: Serve with hummus, guacamole, or a vegan ranch dressing to complement the squash’s natural flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Allow the delicata squash fries to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating in the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again.
Reheating in an Air Fryer: If you have an air fryer, set it to 350°F and heat the fries for 3-4 minutes. This method helps restore their crispiness.
Microwave Option: For a quicker option, microwave the fries in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may result in softer fries.
Freezing (Not Recommended): Due to their high water content, delicata squash fries do not freeze well and may become mushy when reheated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute delicata squash with other varieties like butternut squash, acorn squash, or kabocha squash. Keep in mind that these may require additional peeling and slight adjustments to cooking time based on their texture.

Do I have to peel delicata squash?

No, peeling is not necessary! Delicata squash has a thin, edible skin that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked, saving you time and effort.

What seasonings work best for delicata squash fries?

Salt and pepper are classic choices, but you can also experiment with cinnamon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, or chili flakes for unique flavor profiles. Even sweet blends like cinnamon sugar work beautifully.

How do I make these fries crispy?

To ensure crispy fries, cut the squash slices evenly, spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet, and avoid overcrowding. Tossing them in a bit of olive oil also helps achieve a golden, crispy finish.

Can I make these fries in an air fryer?

Yes, delicata squash fries cook wonderfully in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

How do I prevent the fries from becoming soggy?

The key to preventing soggy fries is proper spacing on the baking sheet. Make sure the slices aren’t overlapping, which can cause steaming instead of roasting.

What dips pair well with these fries?

These fries pair well with ketchup, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even hummus. For a sweet twist, try a yogurt-based dip with honey or maple syrup.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! If making a larger batch, use multiple baking sheets to ensure the fries are spread out in a single layer. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through cooking for even results.

Love squash? Check out my squash recipes collection, including acorn squash, butternut squash and spaghetti squash!

Love the idea of healthy vegetable oven fries? Check out my super-popular zucchini oven fries recipe – it’s been pinned on Pinterest over 645,000 times!

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