This easy baked parmesan yellow squash is a tasty and colorful side dish! It’s full of flavor from the cheese and super simple to make. Just slice, season, and bake until golden!
I love how the cheese gets slightly crispy on top—it’s like a delicious little treat. It’s perfect alongside any meal or even as a light snack. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This recipe shines with fresh yellow squash. If you can’t find it, zucchini is a great alternative. It’s just as tender and absorbs flavors well.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using fresh grated Parmesan for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor too!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its fruity flavor. However, you can substitute with any vegetable oil you have on hand, like avocado or canola oil.
Garlic Powder: Adds a nice kick! If you prefer fresh, you can use minced garlic instead. Just be sure to adjust the quantity—2-3 cloves should do!
How to Slice and Prepare Squash Like a Pro?
Getting the perfect slice on your squash is key! Aim for 1/4 inch rounds for even cooking. Here’s how:
- Start by washing the squash under running water to remove dirt.
- Using a sharp knife, slice off both ends of the squash.
- Place the squash flat on the cutting board and slice straight down into rounds.
Cutting them uniformly helps them cook evenly. And remember, you can use a mandoline slicer if you have one for quicker, even slices!
Easy Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3-4 medium yellow squash
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious side dish that fits perfectly into any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), so it’s hot and ready for your squash as soon as you’re done prepping.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Rinse the yellow squash under cool water to clean it. Cut off both ends, then slice the squash into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Aim for even slices to ensure they cook uniformly—no one likes mushy spots!
3. Season the Squash:
In a large mixing bowl, place the sliced squash. Drizzle the olive oil over the top, add salt and pepper to taste, and the garlic powder if you’re using it. Give it a good toss so that all the flavorful goodness coats each piece of squash evenly.
4. Arrange for Baking:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or simply grease it lightly to prevent sticking. Spread the seasoned squash slices out in a single layer, making sure they’re not overlapping. This helps them cook evenly and gives that lovely golden finish.
5. Add the Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the squash slices. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust once baked—yum!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them around the 15-minute mark; you want the squash to be tender and the cheese to be melted and nicely golden.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the squash out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps to set the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, cheesy side dish!
Enjoy your easy baked parmesan yellow squash as a delicious and simple side dish! It’s perfect for any occasion! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works great as a substitute for yellow squash, and you can also experiment with pattypan squash for a fun twist. Just keep the slicing thickness consistent for even cooking.
What if I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can use any hard cheese, such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano, for a similar flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy taste without the dairy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through, or use the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can slice and season the squash a few hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add the Parmesan right before baking for the best texture and flavor!
