If you’re craving a snack or side that’s bursting with flavor yet remarkably easy to make, the Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful dish combines tender yellow squash slices topped with a golden, cheesy, and crunchy crust that’s simply irresistible. Every bite brings together the savory richness of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese with a subtle hint of garlic and herbs, making it a perfect way to enjoy a wholesome vegetable in a fun, crispy form. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual gathering, these squash rounds are guaranteed to be a hit!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of simple, fresh ingredients, each contributing to the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. The yellow squash provides a tender base full of natural sweetness and moisture, while the cheeses add creamy richness and that crave-worthy golden crust. Breadcrumbs bring the crunch, and aromatic seasonings elevate every bite.
- Yellow squash (2 medium, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds): Choose firm, fresh squash for the best texture and flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps coat the squash for roasting and keeps the cheese crust crispy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that crisps beautifully.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Provides melty, creamy goodness that binds the topping.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs (1/4 cup): Adds the essential crunch and a hint of savory seasoning.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and depth.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness as a garnish.
How to Make Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This step ensures your cheesy squash rounds bake evenly without sticking, creating a perfect base for that crispy topping.
Step 2: Coat the Squash Slices
In a large bowl, toss the sliced yellow squash rounds with olive oil until each slice is evenly coated. This coating not only helps the squash roast nicely but also allows the cheese mixture to stick better and develop a delicious crust.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is the star of the Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds Recipe, delivering a mouthwatering, cheesy crunch with every bite.
Step 4: Coat Squash in Cheese Mixture
Press each oiled squash round, cheese side down, into the cheese mixture, making sure to cover one side thoroughly. This pressing step ensures your rounds get a thick, crunchy layer that will bake to golden perfection.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake
Place the coated squash rounds cheese side up in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the tops turn golden brown and crispy. Watching the transformation in the oven is always rewarding!
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Remove the squash rounds from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. For an extra burst of freshness and a lovely visual touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the rounds.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a wonderful garnish because it adds a bright contrast to the rich, golden cheese crust. You can also experiment with a light drizzle of lemon juice or a dusting of chili flakes if you love a bit of extra zing.
Side Dishes
These squash rounds make a fantastic companion to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a fresh green salad. Because they’re packed with cheese and crunch, they add great texture and flavor to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the rounds in a small tower on each plate or arranging them around a dipping sauce like marinara or garlic aioli. They also work beautifully as a party appetizer—served on a platter with toothpicks for easy nibbling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay tasty but will lose some of their initial crispness.
Freezing
If you want to freeze these rounds, flash freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that amazing crunch, reheat the squash rounds in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the topping crispy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works just as well and has a similar texture. The recipe adapts beautifully to zucchini for a slightly different, yet equally tasty, version of the Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds Recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by swapping the seasoned breadcrumbs for a gluten-free variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy adjustment.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives and use vegan breadcrumbs. The texture might change slightly, but you’ll still enjoy a tasty and crispy bite.
What’s the best way to get extra crispy topping?
For an ultra-crispy finish, broil the squash rounds for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Can I prepare the squash rounds ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the rounds with the cheese mixture and keep them refrigerated covered for a few hours before baking. This makes it easy to have them ready for a party or weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds Recipe that makes eating your veggies exciting and delicious. Its perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory elements will likely have you reaching for seconds, thirds—trust me, it’s just that good! I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon and see how quickly it becomes one of your favorite go-to snacks or sides.
Print
Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish featuring tender yellow squash slices topped with a savory blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Baked until golden and crispy, these cheesy bites are perfect for a low-carb snack or a flavorful vegetable side.
Ingredients
Squash and Oil
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese and Seasoning Mix
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Squash: In a large bowl, toss the squash rounds with olive oil, ensuring all slices are evenly coated with oil for better browning and crisping.
- Mix the Cheese Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to create a flavorful topping mixture.
- Coat Squash with Cheese Mixture: Press each squash slice cheese-side down into the cheese mixture, coating one side thoroughly to ensure maximum flavor and crispy texture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated squash rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them cheese side up for even melting and browning.
- Bake the Squash Rounds: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the cheese topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Optional Broiling for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy finish, broil the rounds for 1–2 minutes at the end of the baking time, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
- Zucchini can be substituted for yellow squash if preferred.
- These cheesy squash rounds make a great low-carb snack or flavorful vegetable side dish.
