Baked Yellow Squash with Cheese
Easy Baked Yellow Squash with Cheese is a simple, comforting side dish that combines tender yellow squash slices baked to perfection with a melty, golden cheese topping. This nutritious and flavorful recipe comes together quickly with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy snack. Customize it with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 3–4 fresh yellow squash, washed and sliced into quarter-inch rounds
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional fresh herbs (parsley or thyme), chopped for garnish
- Prepare the Squash: Start by washing the yellow squash thoroughly. Slice each squash into even quarter-inch thick rounds to ensure uniform cooking and a tender texture.
- Season the Squash: Place the sliced squash in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the slices. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish. Lay the seasoned squash slices in a single layer inside the dish, overlapping slightly if needed, to form an even base for the cheese topping.
- Add the Cheese: Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the squash slices, covering them well to create a golden, melty crust after baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the squash and cheese for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender and the cheese has melted and browned lightly on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Sprinkle with optional fresh herbs if desired, then serve warm as a delightful side dish or snack.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm yellow squash to avoid mushy results.
- Slice squash evenly for consistent cooking and presentation.
- Combine mozzarella and cheddar cheese for ideal meltability and flavor.
- Season well with salt and spices to enhance natural sweetness.
- Watch baking time carefully to achieve a golden crust without overcooking.
- Optional breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter can be added on top for a crunchy finish.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and olive oil or vegan butter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat in oven for best texture.
- Freeze leftovers up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container; thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: baked yellow squash, cheesy squash side dish, baked vegetable, easy squash recipe, gluten free side dish, comfort food vegetable