Butternut Squash Sandwich with Cheddar Cheese and Pickled Red Onion

Directions

1. 1.

   Arrange racks in middle and upper thirds of oven; preheat to 450°F. Cut squash in half crosswise where the neck and body meet. Peel and seed. Slice neck lengthwise into 1/4"-thick planks (about 2 1/2" long). Slice body into 1/4" pieces.

2. 2.

   Divide squash, oil, thyme, garlic, 1 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper between 2 rimmed baking sheets. Toss to combine, then arrange in a single layer. Bake, tossing once halfway through and rotating trays, until squash is tender, 18–20 minutes.

3. 3.

   Meanwhile, bring vinegar, sugar, remaining 3/4 tsp. salt, and 1/2 cup water to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from heat, then stir in onion. Let cool.

4. 4.

   Whisk mayonnaise and mustard in a small bowl. Remove thyme leaves from stems, then finely chop leaves and garlic. Stir into mayonnaise mixture.

5. 5.

   Slice rolls in half and toast in oven 5 minutes. Spread 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise mixture on bottom halves. Top each with squash, cheese, 1 1/2 Tbsp. pickled red onion, and arugula. Serve with chips alongside, if using.

6. 6.

   Squash can be roasted 3 days ahead; cover and chill. Onions can be made 1 month ahead; cover and chill.