When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? Warm, cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth? Enter Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds. These delightful bites are like little discs of happiness that dance on your taste buds. Imagine biting into a perfectly baked squash round, topped with bubbling cheese and a sprinkle of herbs—heavenly, right? The aroma wafts through your kitchen like an enthusiastic chef saying, “Dinner’s ready!” For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
I first stumbled upon this gem during a family gathering when my Aunt Edna whipped them up as a side dish. Little did I know that these cheesy wonders would steal the show! They’re not just for holidays; whether it’s game night or just a Friday treat, Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds promise smiles all around. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this savory delight!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are super easy to prepare and require minimal cleanup
- They burst with flavor thanks to the melty cheese and spices
- Their vibrant appearance will brighten up any meal, making dinner feel extra special
- Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish for any occasion!
Nothing brings people together quite like food, and these rounds have elicited many “wow” moments from my guests. Who knew something so simple could be such a hit?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Yellow Squash: Choose firm squash without blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
Shredded Cheese: I recommend using a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for maximum cheesiness.
Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances the flavor while helping the cheese become beautifully golden.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs elevates the dish and adds a fragrant aroma.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the squash.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For an added crunch on top; they provide texture contrast to the soft squash.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking for those glorious cheesy rounds.
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Slice the Squash: Cut your yellow squash into about half-inch rounds for even cooking. They should resemble little yellow coins ready for cheesy glory.
Toss in Olive Oil & Seasonings: In a bowl, combine sliced squash with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until every slice is evenly coated—it should smell divine!
Add Cheese & Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over each round followed by panko breadcrumbs for crunch. This is where your rounds get their irresistible topping.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will have you dancing in anticipation!
And voilà! Your Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are ready to serve hot from the oven. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or an extra sprinkle of cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.
These delightful rounds are versatile enough to pair with nearly any main dish or stand alone as a satisfying snack. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later—if they last that long!
You Must Know
- Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are not just delicious; they’re a feast for the eyes!
- Their cheesy, golden tops and tender interiors can elevate any meal
- Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your cheese cravings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing the squash evenly for uniform cooking. Bake them at 400°F until tender, then broil with cheese until bubbly and golden. Timing is key!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cheeses or add spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flair. Fresh herbs also make everything taste brighter!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly cheesy baked squash rounds, ensure your squash slices are uniform in thickness
- This guarantees even cooking and prevents some from becoming mushy while others remain firm
- Also, try using panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping
- Lastly, let them cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your tongue on molten cheese!
My first encounter with Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds was during a family potluck where they disappeared faster than a magician’s rabbit!
FAQ
Can I use other types of squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini and yellow squash work beautifully for this cheesy dish.
How do I make them gluten-free?
Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice cereal.
What dipping sauce pairs well with these rounds?
A zesty marinara or creamy ranch dressing makes a delightful pairing for these cheesy bites!
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds are the ultimate comfort food that brings smiles to the dinner table. These bite-sized treats feature perfectly baked yellow squash topped with gooey melted cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs, creating a satisfying crunch. Ideal as an appetizer or side dish, they’re easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether for a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, these cheesy delights are sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash (sliced into ½-inch rounds)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- In a bowl, toss sliced squash with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash on the baking sheet and sprinkle with mozzarella, Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 rounds (90g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
