If you’re ready for a vibrant, reliable side dish that’s not only easy but truly irresistible, you’ve got to try baked squash! This recipe celebrates the tender, golden rounds of yellow squash, seasoned just right and blanketed in a golden shower of Parmesan and crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s a classic that slips right into weeknight meals or shines alongside your favorite entrées at a family gathering. Whether you’re new to making baked squash or it’s a familiar comfort, you’ll find each bite bursting with flavor and just a hint of nostalgia.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity: just a handful of ingredients and you’re on your way to a show-stopping pan of baked squash. Each element, from the squash itself to a sprinkle of parsley at the end, makes a real difference in taste, aroma, and that crave-worthy texture.
- Yellow squash: Slice into 1/4-inch rounds for even roasting and a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Olive oil: Gives the squash a silky coating, helping seasonings stick and encouraging crispy edges.
- Garlic powder: Infuses subtle garlicky warmth in every bite without overpowering the squash’s natural sweetness.
- Onion powder: Adds a sweet-savory depth that rounds out the squash’s delicate flavor.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors into focus; don’t skip or skimp!
- Black pepper: A gentle bite of heat for balance and zest.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parm melts over the squash, lending umami, richness, and that classic cheesy finish.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): For those who love a crispy, bakery-style topping—toss some on for extra crunch.
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional): Sprinkle on just before serving for a gorgeous burst of color and freshness.
How to Make Baked Squash
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
First things first: get your oven ready by preheating it to 400°F. This temperature is perfect for coaxing out the sweetness in the squash while ensuring everything cooks evenly. Either lightly grease a baking sheet or, for easy cleanup, line it with parchment paper—you’ll thank yourself later.
Step 2: Toss the Squash with Flavor
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your sliced yellow squash rounds. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle over the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together, making sure every piece is beautifully coated. This simple step guarantees that every slice of baked squash gets maximum flavor.
Step 3: Arrange and Top
Spread the seasoned squash slices in a single layer across your prepared baking sheet. Keeping them in one layer helps them cook evenly and develop a lovely golden edge. Next, shower the rounds with grated Parmesan cheese, and if you’re up for extra crunch, sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs over the top as well.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the pan into your hot oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for tender, lightly golden squash that holds its shape but melts in your mouth. If you want an irresistibly crisped top, finish with a quick 2 to 3-minute broil—just keep an eye on it so the topping doesn’t go from golden to charred in a flash.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, give your baked squash a finishing flourish with fresh chopped parsley. Not only does it look lovely, but it also adds a welcome pop of freshness. Serve immediately and watch it disappear!
How to Serve Baked Squash
Garnishes
A handful of freshly chopped parsley is my go-to for brightening up baked squash, but don’t stop there. Try grated lemon zest for extra zing, or a few red pepper flakes for a subtle hit of heat. Even a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the dish into something dinner-party-worthy.
Side Dishes
This dish slips perfectly onto the plate alongside grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or a comforting bowl of pasta. Try it with herbed rice, roasted potatoes, or a crisp, leafy green salad. Baked squash also plays nicely with creamy polenta or a hearty grain bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to turn baked squash into a centerpiece, layer it in stacks with roasted tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, or arrange the rounds in a spiral in a pretty oven-proof dish before baking. Individual ramekins make charming single-serving portions for a special dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover baked squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to three days—perfect for prepping lunches or adding extra veggies to tomorrow’s meal.
Freezing
Baked squash generally doesn’t love the freezer, as its texture will soften when thawed. However, if needed, freeze cooled portions between layers of parchment paper for up to two months. Reheat directly from frozen, understanding that crispiness may be lost but flavor will remain bright.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked magic, reheat the squash in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. For speedier reheating, use the microwave—but the oven will help restore some of that golden crispness on top.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely, zucchini works beautifully in baked squash recipes and brings a similarly tender, mildly sweet taste. Mixing zucchini and yellow squash together also creates an eye-catching, colorful side dish.
How do I keep the squash from getting soggy?
For the best texture, slice your squash evenly and arrange the rounds in a single layer. This lets them roast, not steam. Finishing under the broiler adds even more crunch to the top.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you skip the breadcrumbs or use a certified gluten-free variety, baked squash is easily made gluten-free. All other ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Just swap the Parmesan for your favorite dairy-free or vegan cheese, or simply leave it out. You’ll still enjoy delicious oven-roasted squash with lovely seasoning.
How do I know when the squash is fully cooked?
The squash should be fork-tender but not mushy. Look for edges that are turning golden, and the top should be lightly crisped and browned, especially after a few minutes under the broiler.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that is as easy as it is impressive, baked squash is one you’ll come back to again and again. Its cozy aroma, golden crust, and garden-fresh flavor make it a true crowd-pleaser. Give it a try at your next dinner and savor every last bite—you might just discover your new favorite side!
Print
Baked Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the simplicity of Baked Squash, a flavorful and easy side dish that pairs beautifully with any main course. Sliced yellow squash is seasoned, topped with Parmesan, and baked to tender perfection, creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious.
Ingredients
Squash:
- 4 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet.
- Season the squash: In a bowl, coat the sliced squash with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Arrange the seasoned squash on the baking sheet. Top with Parmesan and breadcrumbs if desired. Bake for 20–25 minutes until tender.
- Optional crispiness: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispier top.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- This recipe is versatile and can be made with zucchini or a mix of summer squash.
- For a dairy-free option, omit Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.
- Pair this dish with grilled meats or pasta for a satisfying meal.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *