Introduction
This cheesy baked squash recipe is the perfect combination of savory flavors and tender texture. With a crispy, golden cheese topping, it’s a simple yet delicious side dish that works for any meal. The squash rounds are lightly seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, topped with mozzarella and parmesan, and baked to perfection. A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end takes this dish to the next level!
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash (or zucchini), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, toss the squash rounds with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash rounds in a single layer on the baking sheet, without overlapping.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over each round.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Optionally, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end to get the cheese bubbly and crispy.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.
Variation
- Use Different Squash Varieties: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of squash! Yellow squash can easily be swapped for zucchini, or even butternut squash for a sweeter, richer flavor. You could also mix different squash varieties for a colorful, flavorful twist. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly for thicker squashes like butternut, which may need a bit more time to soften.
- Cheese Options: If you’re a fan of bold flavors, consider switching out the mozzarella for sharp cheddar, gouda, or even crumbled feta. Each cheese brings its own unique texture and taste, so feel free to experiment to suit your preferences. A mix of mozzarella and a tangy blue cheese can create an amazing contrast of flavors!
- Add a Crusty Topping: For added texture and a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or panko over the cheese before baking. You could even mix the breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter for a golden, crispy crust that complements the tender squash beautifully.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs can take this dish to new heights! Try adding fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary along with or instead of parsley or basil. Thyme pairs especially well with the earthy flavor of squash, while rosemary adds a savory, woodsy note.
Cooking Notes
- You can use zucchini instead of yellow squash for a slightly different flavor.
- Feel free to add a bit of red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
- The cheese mixture is flexible – feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda!
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: This cheesy baked squash makes a fantastic side dish to pair with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a complement to a vegetarian main dish like quinoa or pasta. The mild, cheesy flavors enhance everything from a simple grilled steak to a flavorful veggie stir-fry.
- Pair with Sauces: For an extra burst of flavor, serve your cheesy squash with a dipping sauce on the side. Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a tangy yogurt dip work beautifully. If you’re in the mood for a little more kick, try a spicy sriracha-mayo sauce or a balsamic glaze for contrast.
- Make It a Meal: Transform this recipe into a main course by topping the squash with a fried egg and some avocado slices. The combination of the creamy egg yolk and rich cheese adds depth, turning it into a satisfying, healthy breakfast or brunch option.
Tips
- Prep in Advance: This recipe can be made ahead of time! You can slice the squash and toss it with olive oil and seasonings up to a few hours in advance. Simply store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready, bake it as instructed. This is especially useful when you’re entertaining or meal prepping for the week.
- Experiment with Garlic and Onion: If you love savory flavors, try adding some sautéed garlic or onions to the squash mixture before baking. This can deepen the overall flavor of the dish and make it even more aromatic. A few thinly sliced red onions or shallots would work wonderfully.
- Make It Crispy: If you’re after an extra crispy texture, consider adding a light coating of breadcrumbs or cornmeal to the squash before baking. The breadcrumbs will soak up any extra moisture from the squash and create a crispy crust without overpowering the cheese.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 250mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh squash for this recipe as frozen squash can become watery when baked. If you must use frozen squash, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the final dish. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can slice the squash and toss it with the olive oil and seasonings up to a few hours before cooking. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Then, just bake when you’re ready to serve. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and parmesan give a delicious flavor, you can use other cheeses like sharp cheddar, gouda, or goat cheese to mix things up. Just be mindful that different cheeses will affect the taste and texture of the dish. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
Conclusion
This cheesy baked squash recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with nearly any meal. The tender squash, crispy cheese, and savory seasonings make it a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re serving it as a side to a grilled steak, or enjoying it on its own as a light meal, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With endless variations, it’s easy to customize this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs. So preheat that oven, grab some fresh squash, and get ready for a delicious treat that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
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Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This cheesy baked squash recipe is the perfect combination of savory flavors and tender texture. With a crispy, golden cheese topping, it’s a simple yet delicious side dish that works for any meal. The squash rounds are lightly seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, topped with mozzarella and parmesan, and baked to perfection. A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end takes this dish to the next level!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium yellow squash (or zucchini), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, toss the squash rounds with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash rounds in a single layer on the baking sheet, without overlapping.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over each round.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Optionally, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end to get the cheese bubbly and crispy.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can use zucchini instead of yellow squash for a slightly different flavor.
- Feel free to add a bit of red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
- The cheese mixture is flexible – feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: cheesy squash, baked squash, easy side dish, zucchini bake