Easy Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash Recipe to Try

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and healthy side dish to brighten your meal, this Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash recipe is an absolute winner. Combining tender, oven-roasted yellow squash with crunchy, golden Parmesan cheese creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re short on time or just want to enjoy a nourishing vegetable dish, this recipe is a fantastic choice that’s easy to prepare and always delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from fresh yellow squash and a light touch of cheese for protein and flavor.
• Deliciously Crispy Texture: The Parmesan topping crisps up beautifully, adding a satisfying crunch to tender squash.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with everything from grilled meats to pasta for any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the cheesy, baked goodness hidden in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that work together effortlessly. Each one plays a role: the squash provides a mild, buttery base; Parmesan adds depth and crispiness; and seasonings bring everything to life.

• Yellow Squash: Fresh and firm squash are best for sweetness and structure.
• Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated for an evenly crisp, nutty topping.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the cheese brown nicely.
• Garlic Powder: Gives a subtle savory kick without overpowering.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
• Italian Seasoning (optional): A fragrant blend that adds herbaceous warmth.

Variations for Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash

Feel free to play around with this recipe to match your tastes or dietary needs. It’s a flexible base that welcomes all kinds of tweaks and additions.

• Add Breadcrumbs: Mix with Parmesan for extra crunch and texture.
• Swap Herbs: Try fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil for different aromatic profiles.
• Use Different Cheeses: Cheddar, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano can add unique flavors.
• Incorporate Heat: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
• Make it Vegan: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and olive oil or vegan butter.

How to Make Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the squash quickly while crisping the cheese topping without burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash

Wash the yellow squash thoroughly, trim off the ends, and slice them into even, half-inch thick rounds or half-moons to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings

In a large bowl, combine the sliced squash with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Toss well to coat every piece evenly for a flavorful base.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the squash slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking and allow for even roasting.

Step 5: Sprinkle Parmesan Generously

Cover the squash slices evenly with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring each piece gets a nice layer that will crisp in the oven.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Tender

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the Parmesan topping is golden brown and crispy.

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash

• Choose Firm Squash: Select fresh squash without soft spots for the best texture after baking.
• Slice Evenly: Uniform slices ensure even cooking and consistent crispiness throughout.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can affect melting and crisping.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Spread squash in a single layer to avoid sogginess and promote browning.
• Watch the Oven: Keep an eye in the last few minutes to prevent burning, as cheese can brown quickly.

How to Serve Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a fresh herbal note that complements the cheesy, roasted flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or steak, as well as hearty grains like quinoa or brown rice, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the baked squash arranged in overlapping rows on a platter, garnished with colorful cherry tomatoes for contrast, or tossed into warm pasta for a quick weeknight dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it an easy prep-ahead side dish.

Freezing

This baked vegetable is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen by placing cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness; microwaving may result in softer, less crispy squash.

FAQs

Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?

Absolutely! Zucchini works wonderfully in this recipe and creates a similar texture and flavor when baked with Parmesan.

Do I need to peel the yellow squash?

Peeling is not necessary; the skin is thin and softens nicely when roasted, adding color and nutrition.

How much Parmesan cheese should I use?

Use about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of finely grated Parmesan to cover the squash evenly and achieve that perfectly crispy topping.

Can I bake this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare and season the squash slices in advance, then bake just before serving for the freshest results.

Is this recipe suitable for low-carb diets?

Yes, yellow squash is low in carbs, and this recipe uses minimal oil and cheese, making it a great fit for low-carb eating plans.

Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash recipe is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings out the best in simple ingredients. Its warm, cheesy crispiness combined with tender squash will quickly become a favorite addition to your dinner rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of flavor and texture in every bite!

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