Bacon Wrapped Grilled Delicata Squash Rings

By Christie Vanover | Published October 27, 2022 | Last Updated November 8, 2022

What is delicata squash?

Delicata squash is a winter squash that is shaped like a small football. It’s primarily yellow with green or orange stripes.

The interior is yellowish-orange and has a slightly sweet flavor and super smooth and creamy texture.

Unlike other winter squashes like butternut squash and pie pumpkins, the skin of delicata squash is tender (or delicate) and enjoyable to eat, once it’s cooked. Because the rind is softer, it’s also not as challenging to slice, which makes this recipe really easy to make.

Delicata squash can usually be found in the grocery store in the fall and winter, since that’s the time of year when it’s harvested.

• Delicata Squash: This oblong squash can be found during winter squash season in the produce section of your local market.
• Bacon: Use regular bacon, not the thick-cut. Regular bacon will cook up and crisp better.
• Maple Syrup: I recommend using pure maple syrup, instead of the pancake syrup. It has a more natural flavor. You could also use honey or hot honey.
• BBQ Rub: For this recipe, I used BBQ Guys Signature Kansas City Rub. My Spiceology Pork Rub would also taste great on these delicate squash slices. Or you can use a simple sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper.

1. STEP ONE: Wash the squash. Using a sharp knife, slice off both ends and discard. Slice the squash into 1/2-inch thick slices.

While the skin of a delicata squash is delicate, if you buy one that has a little growth on the side (like pictured below), trim it off. It will taste woody and won’t be pleasant on the palate.

2. STEP TWO: Using a metal spoon or knife, remove the seeds from the center and discard. (You can also clean them and smoke them for a flavorful garnish on salads)

3. STEP THREE: Wrap one slice of bacon around each ring. Start by placing the bacon at the 3 o’clock position and tuck it under and through the ring. Pull it up at the 6 o’clock position. Fold it back over at the 9 o’clock position. And finish the wrap at the top.

4. STEP FOUR: Season both sides lightly with rub. 

5. STEP FIVE: Place the slices of squash onto the grill over indirect heat, and cook for 30 minutes. Flip, and cook for 30 more minutes.

6. STEP SIX: After the squash has been on the grill for one hour, brush maple syrup on top and cook for 5-10 more minutes. Test them with a fork or knife to ensure the squash is tender and cooked through and make sure the bacon is crispy to your liking.

How to serve grilled delicata squash

These bacon wrapped delicata squash rings can be served as an appetizer or side dish. Each squash yields 8-10 rings.

They taste wonderful when they’re fresh and warm from the grill, but they’re also delicious when they’ve cooled off. You could make them in advance, refrigerate them and serve them with a traditional veggie platter or alongside a bowl of Grilled Wild Rice Kale Salad.

Storage

Grilled delicata squash can be saved in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-5 days.

You can also freeze them for up to six months and reheat them in a 400F degree oven or air fryer.

Health benefits of delicata squash

Delicata squash is a great, healthy vegetable that is low in calories and rich in fiber, potassium, vitamin A and vitamin C. A one-cup serving has around 7 grams of sugar.

Adding the bacon and maple syrup obviously makes this more indulgent, so if you want to make a simple grilled delicata squash, just brush the rings with a little olive oil or vegetable oil, season and follow the rest of the steps (with or without the maple syrup).