Description
Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash is a simple, healthy, and flavorful side dish featuring tender oven-roasted yellow squash topped with a crispy, golden Parmesan cheese crust. Ready in under 30 minutes, this versatile recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta, or grains. It delivers a deliciously cheesy crunch and a nutritious vegetable component that’s kid-friendly and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3–4 fresh yellow squash, trimmed and sliced into half-inch rounds or half-moons
Cheese & Seasonings
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the squash roasts quickly and the Parmesan topping crisps without burning.
- Prepare the Squash: Wash the yellow squash thoroughly, trim off the ends, and slice them evenly into half-inch thick rounds or half-moons for uniform cooking.
- 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 all pieces evenly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined or lightly greased baking sheet to prevent sticking and promote even roasting.
- Sprinkle Parmesan Generously: Evenly cover the arranged squash slices with the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring each piece is topped well for a crispy crust.
- Bake Until Golden and Tender: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the squash is tender and the Parmesan is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Choose firm, fresh yellow squash for optimal texture and sweetness.
- Slice the squash evenly to ensure consistent cooking and crispiness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated for better melting and crisping.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; arrange squash in a single layer to avoid sogginess.
- Watch the oven closely near the end of baking to prevent burning of the cheese topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Parmesan baked yellow squash, baked squash, healthy vegetable side dish, easy squash recipe, cheesy baked squash, gluten free side dish
