If you are looking for a simple yet irresistibly tasty way to enjoy summer squash, this Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe is an absolute must-try. Each tender, golden slice is coated in flavorful spices and crowned with melty cheddar and Parmesan, creating a delightful combination of textures and sharp, savory notes. It’s the perfect way to make squash shine, whether as a cozy side dish or a comforting snack that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try these cheesy rounds, they’ll quickly become a favorite go-to in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this dish is a breeze thanks to its straightforward and essential ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the natural sweetness and slight bite of the yellow squash to the rich, melty cheeses, every component plays its part in creating this mouthwatering recipe.
- 2 medium yellow squash (sliced into ¼-inch rounds): The star ingredient offering a tender, mild base that crisps slightly as it bakes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices cling and creates a luscious golden finish on the squash.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic punch that complements the cheeses beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Provides a subtle depth of savory flavor without overpowering the squash.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural tastes and balances the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a hint of spice and brightness to the flavor mix.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Creates a creamy, melty layer that’s packed with bold, tangy flavor.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, slightly crisped golden finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a burst of freshness and lovely color for the final touch.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key for cooking the squash just right—soft and tender on the inside with a little crisp on the edges. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and ease cleanup later on.
Step 2: Season the Squash Slices
Place your perfectly sliced yellow squash into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so every round is evenly coated in that flavorful seasoning mix, ensuring each bite is just as delicious as the next.
Step 3: Arrange and Cheese
Lay the seasoned squash rounds in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, giving each piece enough room so they bake uniformly. Next, top each round with a small handful of shredded cheddar cheese and a light sprinkle of Parmesan. This layering is what brings the cheese’s ooey-gooey magic to life during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your baking sheet in the oven and bake the squash rounds for 15 to 18 minutes. You want the squash to become tender but not mushy, and the cheese to melt fully and turn a lovely golden-brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end—it’s pure magic to watch those cheese edges crisp just right.
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the squash from the oven and give it a few minutes to cool slightly. This brief rest lets the cheese set just enough to make serving easier while keeping everything warm and inviting. If you love a touch of fresh flavor and color, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh chopped parsley isn’t just about making your dish look pretty. It brightens the rich and cheesy flavors with a clean, herbal note that refreshes the palate. A sprinkling of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can also provide exciting variations that elevate these simple rounds to a gourmet level.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe shines wonderfully alongside grilled chicken, roasted pork, or even a hearty veggie burger. Their creamy texture and cheesy taste complement protein dishes beautifully, making your meal feel complete and satisfying. They also work as a fantastic low-carb alternative to fries or chips for those watching their carb intake.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling playful? Stack your baked squash rounds like mini savory towers, layering cheese and garnish between slices for a pretty presentation. Another fun idea is to serve them on a platter with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy marinara to turn them into a shareable appetizer at a party. The versatility of this recipe means you can tailor the serving style to any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheese might firm up a bit, but flavors meld nicely overnight, making the rounds even more flavorful the next day. Just be sure to consume them within 3 to 4 days to enjoy the best taste and texture.
Freezing
While these baked squash rounds taste best fresh, you can freeze them for longer storage. Arrange cooled rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready, bake or reheat them directly from frozen for a convenient snack or side dish.
Reheating
The best way to reheat this recipe is in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, which helps revive the crispy edges and melts the cheese back to silky perfection. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the squash soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I substitute zucchini for yellow squash in this recipe?
Absolutely! Zucchini has a very similar texture and flavor profile, so it works wonderfully as a substitute or even mixed in with yellow squash to add a bit more variety in color and taste.
What cheeses work best besides cheddar and Parmesan?
Feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder melt, Monterey Jack for extra creaminess, or even a sharp Asiago for more bite. A blend often yields the best, most flavorful results!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free seasoning. It’s a perfect choice for those avoiding gluten but still craving a delicious comfort dish.
Can I make these rounds ahead for a gathering?
You sure can! Prepare and season the squash ahead, then add cheese and bake right before serving to retain maximum freshness and cheesiness. This approach also frees up time during your party preparations.
How can I make the rounds crispier?
To get crispier edges, slice the squash slightly thinner and bake a bit longer at the same temperature. You can also broil them for the last minute or two—just watch closely to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about this Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s simple, comforting, and wonderfully versatile, making it a fantastic way to turn humble squash into a standout dish. Whether you’re feeding family or looking for that perfect snack to enjoy with friends, these cheesy rounds never disappoint. Give them a try—you just might find your new favorite cheesy vegetable treat!
Print
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish featuring tender yellow squash slices topped with melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a low-carb snack or a flavorful accompaniment to any meal, these baked rounds are seasoned with garlic and onion powder for a savory touch and can be garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Squash Preparation
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Season Squash: In a large bowl, toss the sliced squash rounds with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until all slices are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay the squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking.
- Add Cheese: Top each squash slice with a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the squash rounds cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- You can substitute yellow squash with zucchini or a mix of summer squashes for variety.
- Try using different cheese blends like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- This recipe works great as a side dish or a low-carb snack option.
