If you’re looking for a side that’s vibrant, packed with flavor, and a total crowd-pleaser, you absolutely have to try Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash. Here’s a dish that marries the cheerful color and tender texture of yellow squash with a crave-worthy crunchy topping of Parmesan and optional breadcrumbs. This is one of those recipes that turns simple ingredients into something you’ll want to nibble straight off the baking pan—trust me, I’ve been guilty of that more than once! Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or jazzing up your next potluck table, Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash is sure to steal the show.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash is all in using straightforward ingredients and letting them shine. Each adds a special touch, whether it’s the squash’s natural sweetness or the punch of savory cheese. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:
- Yellow squash: Choose firm, medium squash for the best texture; their slight sweetness makes the perfect base and looks stunning on the plate.
- Olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick and gives the squash a lovely, caramelized edge as it bakes.
- Garlic powder: Adds a mellow garlicky warmth that’s much less sharp than raw garlic—perfect for even the youngest eaters.
- Italian seasoning: Brings in herby notes that take the flavor up a notch and make the squash taste like summer.
- Salt: Just the right amount for drawing out the natural flavor without overpowering.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and balances out the richness of the Parmesan.
- Parmesan cheese: The star of the show! Look for freshly grated if possible for those irresistible melty, golden edges.
- Breadcrumbs (optional): Give you extra crunch if you like a crispy topping—go with panko for even more texture.
- Chopped parsley (optional for garnish): Brightens the whole dish with a burst of color and freshness.
How to Make Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. This bit of prep means nothing gets between you and that golden, cheesy finish.
Step 2: Slice and Season the Squash
Slice your yellow squash into 1/4-inch thick rounds—uniform size ensures even cooking. Drop them into a large mixing bowl, pour over the olive oil, and toss well. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss again so every slice is nicely coated and seasoned from edge to edge.
Step 3: Arrange and Top
Lay the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Be sure not to overlap—this helps everything roast evenly instead of steaming. Now, sprinkle each round with grated Parmesan cheese and, if you’re in the mood for crunch, a generous pinch of breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy and Golden
Slide your tray into the hot oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for tender squash with a gorgeous golden top. The aroma will tell you when it’s close—nobody can resist that nutty, cheesy perfume wafting through the kitchen! When finished, the edges should be lightly browned and crispy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
As soon as your Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash comes out of the oven, finish it with a shower of chopped parsley for freshness and a pop of color. Serve it warm, when the cheese is still bubbling and the breadcrumbs are at their crunchiest!
How to Serve Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley wakes everything up, and a squeeze of lemon can add brightness if you want to play up the summer vibes. For extra flair, a dusting of cracked black pepper or even some chili flakes can amp up both flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash is right at home alongside nearly any main: think grilled chicken, roast salmon, or even a juicy burger. For a vegetarian spread, try pairing it with quinoa salad or a hearty tomato risotto. The flavors are friendly and versatile, making this a true all-rounder.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, layer these squash rounds as a colorful base for poached eggs at brunch, toss leftovers into a salad, or even use them as a homemade pizza topping. Stack a few slices and skewer with a toothpick for a cute, bite-sized party snack—Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash is as fun as it is flavorful!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow manage to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The squash will soften a bit, but the flavor is just as wonderful the next day!
Freezing
While you can freeze Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash, note that the texture may change once thawed, becoming softer. Freeze in a single layer, separated by parchment, for up to two months. They make a great meal-prep addition if you don’t mind the change in bite.
Reheating
To bring back some of the crisp, reheat leftovers in a hot oven or toaster oven (about 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes) instead of the microwave. This helps revive that irresistible golden topping and keeps the squash from turning soggy.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely! Mixing zucchini with yellow squash brings more color to the plate and works perfectly with the Parmesan topping. Adjust baking time if your slices are thicker.
Is there a way to make Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash gluten-free?
Yes, just leave out the breadcrumbs or use your favorite gluten-free alternative. All the deliciousness without the gluten, and still crispy thanks to the cheese!
How do I keep the squash from getting soggy?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated and that you arrange the squash slices in a single layer with space between them. This lets steam escape and encourages that glorious browning.
Can this be served cold?
You can, though the texture won’t be as crisp as when served warm. It’s still lovely tossed into salads, tucked in wraps, or paired with cold antipasto platters.
What’s the best way to grate Parmesan for this recipe?
Grab a microplane or the star side of a box grater for fine, fluffy shreds that melt evenly. For maximum melt and flavor, grate your Parmesan fresh rather than buying pre-grated.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s equal parts easy, delicious, and downright satisfying, you just can’t go wrong with Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash. It’s a recipe I find myself coming back to all season long, and I have a feeling you will too. Go ahead—give it a try, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!
Print
Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delightful dish of Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash – a simple yet flavorful way to prepare this versatile vegetable. Tender yellow squash rounds are coated with Parmesan cheese and baked to a golden crisp, making for a perfect side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional:
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet.
- Prepare Squash: Toss squash with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Arrange squash on the baking sheet, sprinkle with Parmesan and breadcrumbs, then bake for 18–20 minutes until golden.
- Finish: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a low-carb version, omit the breadcrumbs.
- Try a mix of yellow squash and zucchini for variety.
- Serve as a side dish or a healthy snack.
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