Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – Requires only a few simple steps and minimal prep.
- Crispy and cheesy – A delightful combination of crunchy breadcrumbs and melted cheese.
- Great side dish or snack – Perfect for pairing with any main course or enjoying on its own.
- Customizable – Easily adjust the seasoning or cheese to your preference.
- Healthier alternative – Baked instead of fried, making it a lighter choice.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Squash
- Slice the yellow squash into ¼-inch thick rounds.
- Season the Squash
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Brush both sides of each squash round with olive oil, then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Assemble
- Arrange the coated squash rounds on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the squash rounds.
- Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per serving
Variations
- Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds instead.
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Extra Crunch: Mix in crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover squash rounds in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. A toaster oven or air fryer also works well.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the squash may become too soft after thawing.
FAQs
1. Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Yes, zucchini works just as well for this recipe and will have a similar texture and taste.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the squash rounds in advance, coat them with breadcrumbs, and store them in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.
3. How do I make this dish even crispier?
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for extra crunch. You can also broil the squash for the last 2 minutes.
4. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like basil or oregano will enhance the flavor, but use about three times the amount compared to dried.
5. What other seasonings can I add?
Try garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning for more depth of flavor.
6. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, checking for doneness.
7. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Not as written, but you can use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
8. Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, avocado oil, melted butter, or coconut oil are great alternatives.
9. How do I prevent the squash from getting soggy?
Make sure not to slice the squash too thin and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
10. Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes! Try adding cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded chicken for extra protein.
Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with any meal. With crispy breadcrumbs, gooey cheese, and fragrant herbs, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, with so many variations and easy storage options, this recipe is both convenient and versatile. Try them today and enjoy a deliciously cheesy twist on baked squash!
Print
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Golden, crispy Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are a delicious and easy side dish or snack. Topped with melty cheddar and Parmesan, these baked squash slices are seasoned to perfection and coated with crunchy breadcrumbs. A lighter alternative to fried options, they pair perfectly with any meal!
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Squash
- Slice the yellow squash into ¼-inch thick rounds.
3. Season the Squash
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Brush both sides of each squash round with olive oil and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Assemble
- Arrange coated squash rounds on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the rounds.
5. Bake
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
6. Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Cheese Options – Use mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack.
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Extra Crunch – Try panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- Air Fryer Method – Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
