Cheesy Baked Yellow Squash Rounds: A Simple, Flavorful Side
Cheesy Baked Yellow Squash Rounds are a quick and tasty way to enjoy summer squash. This dish layers tender yellow squash with a savory mix of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then bakes until golden and bubbly. Perfect as a side for weeknight dinners or a comforting addition to holiday spreads, this recipe is simple, healthy, and irresistible for both kids and adults.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven. Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
Slice the squash. Wash and trim the ends of yellow squash, then slice into 1/4-inch rounds.
Prepare breadcrumb mixture. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme or oregano.
Layer squash. Arrange squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Add olive oil. Drizzle the squash lightly with olive oil to help the toppings adhere and promote browning.
Sprinkle cheese. Top each squash round with a small amount of mozzarella cheese.
Add breadcrumb topping. Sprinkle the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture evenly over each slice.
Bake. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until squash is tender and the topping is golden brown.
Garnish. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm. Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy as a side dish or appetizer.
Tips
Uniform slices. Slice squash evenly to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate.
Avoid soggy squash. Pat squash dry with a paper towel before baking to reduce moisture.
Cheese options. Gruyère or cheddar can be used for different flavor profiles.
Breadcrumb choice. Panko provides extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
Herbs matter. Fresh or dried herbs elevate the flavor—try basil, thyme, or oregano.
Oven placement. Bake in the center rack for even browning.
Don’t overcrowd. Spread rounds in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
Make ahead. Prepare slices and topping mixture in advance, then bake when ready.
Extra crispy. Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a crispier topping.
Serving tip. Pair with grilled meats, pasta, or as a veggie appetizer with dipping sauce.
Variations
Vegan version: Use vegan cheese and omit Parmesan, replace with nutritional yeast for flavor.
Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
Herb-heavy: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning to the topping.
Garlic butter: Toss squash slices in melted garlic butter before topping.
Cheese mix: Combine mozzarella, fontina, and Parmesan for deeper flavor.
Stuffed style: Layer thin slices of tomato or zucchini beneath squash rounds.
Low-carb: Skip breadcrumbs and increase cheese for a keto-friendly version.
Crispier topping: Mix breadcrumbs with a little olive oil before sprinkling.
Add protein: Sprinkle cooked bacon bits or chopped ham for a hearty side.
Presentation: Serve in a single-layer spiral on a platter for a visually appealing dish.
Q&A
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Yes, zucchini works well in this recipe.
Can I freeze these?
Fully baked squash tends to get watery, so freezing is not recommended.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, just adjust quantity and ensure it melts evenly.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How do I prevent soggy squash?
Pat dry slices and avoid overlapping on the baking sheet.
Can this be made ahead?
Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
How to make it extra cheesy?
Sprinkle additional mozzarella before baking.
What sides go well?
Pairs with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or pasta dishes.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, thin slices of carrot or zucchini mix well.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven for crispness.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate, 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: 130
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Sodium: 280mg
Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Yellow Squash Rounds are a simple, flavorful side that transforms ordinary squash into a crispy, cheesy delight. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes, they are perfect for weeknights, holiday meals, or casual gatherings. With easy customization options, this recipe can be adapted to suit vegan, low-carb, or protein-packed preferences. Golden, cheesy, and satisfying, these baked squash rounds are proof that vegetables can be the star of the plate without extra effort.