Traeger Roasted Parmesan Squash

Tender, cheesy, and a bit crispy: What more could you want from a side dish? Oh yeah, it's also super easy to make. This recipe is great with delicata squash, but the more common acorn and butternut are also delicious. Feel free to try this method with other veggies too, such as the Brussels sprouts and baby potatoes shown here.

PREP TIME: 10 minutes
COOK TIME: 30 minutes
TRAEGER PELLETS: Pecan
YIELD: 6 Servings

INGREDIENTS

• 2 delicata squashes, each about 8 inches long, or similar amount of other winter squash
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, grated or minced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 1 cup)
• 4 teaspoons fresh thyme
• Honey for drizzling (optional)

STEPS

1. When ready to cook, preheat the Traeger pellet grill with the lid closed to 425 degrees Fahrenheit; this should take about 15 minutes. Have a rimmed baking sheet ready. For easy cleanup, you can line it with parchment, but the cheese won't crisp as well.
2. Halve, seed, and slice the squash 1/4-inch thick. If using other vegetables, slice or halve them depending on size.
3. Melt the butter. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper to the melted butter and stir to combine. Drizzle about half the garlic butter onto the lined baking sheet. Sprinkle about three-quarters of the cheese evenly over the baking sheet, then sprinkle with about half the thyme. Arrange the squash or other vegetables over the cheese in a single layer. Drizzle with the remaining butter, then top with the remaining cheese and thyme.
4. Place the baking sheet directly on the Traeger grill grates and close the lid. Cook until tender when pierced with the tip of a knife and the cheese is golden brown, 22 to 30 minutes. Begin checking early.
5. Let cool for 2 to 3 minutes on the baking sheet. During this time, the cheese will crisp up. Using a spatula to get under the bottom layer of crispy Parmesan, transfer to a platter or plates, and serve warm. If you like, drizzle a little honey on top. Enjoy!