Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash

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Golden, tender, and packed with savory flavor, Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings out the best in this underrated vegetable. Each slice is perfectly roasted with a golden crust of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, offering a crispy top and buttery-soft interior. Light herbs add a fresh aroma, making this an irresistible side for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With minimal ingredients and prep time, it’s a go-to for home cooks looking for something wholesome and tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a veggie side, or a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, this recipe fits seamlessly into any mealtime routine.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash

• Naturally low-carb, gluten-optional, and veggie-packed.
• Ready in under 30 minutes with just a few pantry staples.
• Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside – the ideal texture combo.
• Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices.
• A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash efficiently, a few kitchen tools will really streamline the process:

• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Ensures uniform slices for even cooking.
• Cutting Board: A stable surface makes prepping safe and tidy.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for tossing the squash slices in olive oil and seasonings.
• Baking Sheet or Oven-safe Dish: Provides even heat distribution for roasting.
• Parchment Paper or Non-Stick Spray: Prevents sticking and eases cleanup.
• Oven or Air Fryer: Both methods work well for achieving a crispy golden top.

Each of these tools plays a key role in creating that perfect, evenly roasted bite without fuss or mess.

Preparation Tips

Make sure your squash slices are evenly cut – about 1/2 inch thick – to avoid over- or undercooked pieces. Don’t skip the step of patting the squash dry with a paper towel after slicing; this helps the oil and seasonings stick better and reduces excess moisture that can make the squash soggy. For extra crispiness, broil the dish for a couple of minutes at the end. Finally, use freshly grated Parmesan if possible – it melts and crisps up better than the pre-packaged stuff.

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Ingredients for this Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash

• 3 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
• Fresh thyme leaves or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Non-stick cooking spray or parchment paper (for baking sheet)

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Step 1: Prep the Squash

Wash the yellow squash thoroughly and trim the ends. Slice into uniform 1/2-inch rounds to ensure even roasting. Pat each slice dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Season the Squash

Place the squash slices in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly with oil and seasonings.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the squash slices in a single layer without overlapping.

Step 4: Add Toppings

In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture generously over each squash round, pressing down slightly to help it adhere. Optional: Add a few thyme leaves on top for extra flavor and color.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the topping is golden and crispy. For an extra-crispy finish, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.

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Notes

Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash is incredibly versatile and can adapt to various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or omit them entirely. Using freshly grated Parmesan will always yield better texture and flavor than pre-shredded varieties. This recipe also works beautifully with zucchini or a mix of squash types if you’re looking to use up summer produce.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan: Placing slices too close together traps moisture and prevents crisping. Always spread them in a single layer.
• Skipping the pat dry step: Moisture leads to sogginess. Dry slices mean better browning.
• Using too much oil: A light coating is all you need. Excess oil can cause the topping to become greasy.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting and browning.
• Under-seasoning: Squash is mild in flavor. Be generous with your herbs and cheese.

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Storage Instructions

Leftover Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 2–3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the squash soggy and lose its texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~140 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 290mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free Parmesan alternative if needed.

Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?

Absolutely! Zucchini works just as well in this recipe and pairs perfectly with the same seasonings.

How do I keep the squash from getting soggy?

Make sure to pat the squash dry and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Broiling at the end also helps add crisp.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the squash and toppings ahead and bake just before serving.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! Simply skip the breadcrumbs or use keto-friendly crumbs to keep it low-carb.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, checking frequently for crispness.

Do I need to peel the squash?

No peeling necessary – the skin is tender and adds nice texture.

What main dishes pair well with this?

Grilled chicken, baked salmon, or pasta primavera are excellent pairings.

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Conclusion

Parmesan Baked Yellow Squash is a fantastic way to elevate simple ingredients into a crave-worthy side dish. Its quick preparation, adaptability, and deliciously crispy topping make it a favorite for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, and everything in between. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or meal prepping for the week, this recipe brings flavor and simplicity to your table.

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