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Best Crispy Parmesan Delicata Squash Rings Recipe

crispy parmesan delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy Parmesan delicata squash rings are a nostalgic, kid-approved twist on a classic vegetable side dish. With a shatteringly crisp coating and tender-sweet interior, they’re ready in about 30 minutes and perfect for weeknights or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • Marinara sauce (for serving, optional)
  • Ranch dressing (for serving, optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if you have one. Spray the rack lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly under cold water. Cut off both ends, then slice the squash crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring using a spoon.
  3. Set up your breading station. In the first shallow bowl, add ¼ cup all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs and 1 tablespoon water until frothy. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix with a fork until evenly distributed.
  4. Take a squash ring and dip it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it in the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are fully coated. Place the coated ring on the prepared wire rack or baking sheet. Repeat with all the rings.
  5. Bake for 12 minutes, then carefully flip each ring using tongs. Bake for another 10-12 minutes, until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Let the rings rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with a little extra salt and fresh parsley if you like, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Don’t skip the flour step—it helps the coating stick. Use a light hand with the egg wash to avoid sogginess. For extra crunch, toast the panko first. Watch the salt since Parmesan is naturally salty. Bake, don’t fry, for a lighter result. If making a double batch, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy Parmesan delicata squash rings, baked squash rings, vegetarian side dish, easy squash recipe, kid-friendly vegetables