Introduction
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that can turn any meal into something special.
This recipe combines the sweetness of yellow squash with the savory flavors of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, creating a deliciously satisfying treat.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a side to complement a main course, these squash rounds are the perfect choice..
Ingredients
2 medium-sized yellow squash
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot when you bake the squash rounds. Next, wash and slice the yellow squash into thin, even rounds, about 1/4-inch thick.
The uniformity of the slices ensures they cook evenly, resulting in a consistent texture throughout the dish.
Lay the squash rounds on a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps them crisp up better in the oven.
In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Stir the ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed. This cheesy mixture will give the squash rounds a delicious crust when baked.
Drizzle the olive oil over the squash slices, making sure each piece is lightly coated. You can use a brush or your hands for even distribution.
The olive oil will help the squash crisp up while adding a rich, savory flavor to each bite.
Once the squash rounds are coated in oil, take a spoonful of the cheese and breadcrumb mixture and sprinkle it generously on top of each round.
Press down gently to help the topping stick, making sure the squash is covered with a delicious cheesy crust.
Arrange the prepared squash rounds on a baking sheet in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd them, as this can prevent them from getting crispy.
If needed, use two baking sheets for more space. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese topping is golden brown and crispy.
Once the rounds are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. This gives the cheese topping a chance to set.
making the squash rounds easier to serve. If desired, you can sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Serve these cheesy baked squash rounds immediately as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.
They pair beautifully with a variety of main courses, such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a simple salad.
How to Make
Making Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds is straightforward, and the results are impressive. The first step is to prep your squash by slicing it into thin rounds, ensuring they cook evenly.
By removing excess moisture with a paper towel, you’ll achieve a crispy texture rather than soggy squash.
The key to achieving the perfect golden-brown crust lies in the cheese and breadcrumb mixture. You can customize the cheese used, depending on your preferences.
but cheddar and Parmesan offer a fantastic balance of sharpness and richness. Make sure to press the cheese mixture firmly onto each slice for the best results.
The use of olive oil is essential, as it helps the squash crisp up during baking and adds flavor. Be generous with the oil.
but not so much that the squash becomes greasy. When baking, keep an eye on the squash to avoid overcooking. Every oven is different, so adjust the time accordingly.
While the dish is baking, the wonderful aromas of the cheese and herbs will fill your kitchen. The dried oregano and basil infuse.
the squash with a subtle Italian flavor that complements the richness of the cheese. Once done, the crispy top and tender inside will make these squash rounds a hit.
These rounds are incredibly versatile. If you want to make them spicier, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
If you prefer a more delicate flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried ones.
Additionally, the recipe can be adapted for different types of squash, like zucchini, for a different take on the dish.
Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the slices.
Lastly, for those who are looking to make the dish healthier, you can substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs or skip the breadcrumbs entirely.
The olive oil will still provide that crispy texture, and the cheeses will ensure a savory bite.
Variations
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are a versatile dish that you can modify according to your tastes or dietary preferences.
For a more complex flavor, try swapping the dried oregano and basil with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage. Fresh herbs give the dish a more vibrant and aromatic quality.
If you’re a fan of spicy food, adding red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture will give the squash rounds a nice kick.
For a smoky twist, consider using smoked paprika or smoked gouda in place of regular cheddar cheese. This will give the squash rounds a deeper, more robust flavor.
For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almond flour.
The almond flour will add a slightly nutty flavor while maintaining the desired crispness.
Cheddar and Parmesan are classic cheese choices, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses.
A mixture of mozzarella and Monterey Jack can create a melty, gooey texture, while feta or goat cheese will add tanginess and creaminess.
To make the recipe even more indulgent, top each squash round with a small dollop of sour cream or ranch dressing before baking.
The creamy topping will melt into the cheese and add an extra layer of richness.
For a heartier dish, you can also add cooked ground meat, such as sausage or turkey, on top of the squash rounds.
This turns the dish into a more substantial meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Finally, if you want a vegetarian version with a bit more substance, try adding a layer of sliced tomatoes.
between the squash and cheese mixture. This will introduce a fresh, juicy element to balance the richness of the cheese.
Tips
One key tip for perfect Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds is to slice the squash evenly. If some slices are thicker than others, they may cook unevenly.
resulting in some pieces being overcooked while others remain underdone. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness.
Another tip is to make sure the squash rounds are well-drained before baking. Excess moisture can cause the squash to steam rather than crisp up, leading to a soggy texture.
Pressing them with a paper towel or clean cloth will help absorb the moisture.
If you prefer your squash rounds to be extra crispy, try broiling them for a few minutes after baking.
This will give the cheese topping a nice, crunchy finish. Just be sure to watch them closely to avoid burning.
Don’t skimp on the seasoning. While the cheese mixture is essential for flavor, the herbs and spices also play an important role.
Taste the cheese mixture before adding it to the squash rounds and adjust the seasonings as needed.
If you’re making a large batch, consider using two baking sheets to avoid crowding the squash. Crowding can cause.
the rounds to steam instead of crisping up, so giving them plenty of space is key to achieving that perfect texture.
For extra flavor, try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving. This will elevate the dish and give it a touch of elegance.
Lastly, for a more visually appealing dish, try arranging the squash rounds in a circular pattern on the baking sheet.
This adds an aesthetic touch and makes the dish look even more enticing when served.
Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to please any crowd. With their crispy texture and rich, cheesy flavor, they make a great side dish.
appetizer, or even a light snack. By following this recipe, you’ll enjoy a healthy and tasty treat that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses.
Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these squash rounds are an easy, customizable dish that will leave everyone asking for more.
The combination of cheese, herbs, and squash creates a balance of flavors that is both satisfying and delicious.