If you’re craving a snack or side that feels indulgent yet fresh and wholesome, these Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds are exactly what you need. Imagine tender yellow squash slices generously coated in a savory, melty mix of Parmesan and mozzarella, all crisped to golden perfection in the oven. They deliver that satisfying crunch and cheesy goodness without the mess of frying. Whether you’re looking for a simple appetizer, a delightful vegetable side, or a crowd-pleasing snack, these Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds bring comfort and flavor with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze thanks to its straightforward, kitchen-friendly ingredients. Each item plays a special part in creating a perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 2 medium yellow squash (sliced into 1/4-inch rounds): The star of the dish, tender and mild with a natural subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides creamy meltiness and ties the topping together.
- 1/3 cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Brings that coveted crispy texture and a hint of herbaceous zest.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps with browning and keeps the squash moist.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers savory depth without overpowering the squash’s freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses fragrant Mediterranean herbs for vibrant flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the squash.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures the squash rounds don’t stick and helps with even baking.
How to Make Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is perfect for getting those squash rounds crisp and golden. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a snap.
Step 2: Toss the Squash
In a mixing bowl, gently toss your yellow squash rounds with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning coats each piece just enough to enhance its natural flavor and set the stage for a perfectly balanced dish.
Step 3: Create the Cheese and Breadcrumb Mixture
Next, combine the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning in another bowl. This blend of cheeses and herbs will give your squash rounds their irresistible crispy, cheesy crust.
Step 4: Coat the Squash
Now for the fun part. Press each squash slice firmly into the cheese and breadcrumb mixture. Make sure both sides are well-coated because that’s where the magic of crispiness and cheesy goodness takes hold.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake
Lay the coated squash rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure an even golden crust on both sides. You’ll know they’re done when they’re beautifully crisp and bubbling with cheese.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds
Garnishes
Adding a little fresh flair makes these rounds even more delightful. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the hot rounds to add color and a burst of herbal brightness. A light drizzle of a balsamic glaze or a dusting of smoked paprika can also amplify their flavor profile wonderfully.
Side Dishes
These Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds pair perfectly with a variety of meals. Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light and satisfying dinner, or offer them as a shareable option alongside pasta or a hearty soup. They also work as a fantastic vegetarian-friendly snack or appetizer during gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family dinners, stack these rounds on a platter surrounded by fresh salad greens or place them in small individual bowls with a dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli. Turning this simple dish into a creative presentation adds an element of fun and makes them irresistible to guests of all ages.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, retaining most of their crispy texture and cheesy flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, place the fully cooled rounds on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen squash rounds can keep for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen to re-crisp.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8 to 10 minutes. This will help restore their crispy edges, unlike microwaving which can leave them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini is a perfect substitute for yellow squash in this recipe. It has a similar texture and mild flavor that works well with the cheesy, crispy coating.
How do I make the squash rounds extra crispy?
To get extra crispy squash rounds, try broiling them for the last 1 to 2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, but that quick burst of high heat really amps up the crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! Since it uses cheese and plant-based ingredients, this dish fits perfectly into a vegetarian diet. Just make sure your cheese is made with vegetarian rennet if that is a concern.
Can I prepare the squash rounds ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can coat the squash rounds and arrange them on the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from chilled.
What dipping sauces complement these Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds?
Great options include ranch dressing, marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. These dips add an extra layer of flavor and balance the cheesy crunch beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to jazz up your vegetable side game or serve something crunchy and cheesy to please a crowd, Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds are a surefire winner. They’re simple to make, ridiculously tasty, and bring that comfort-food vibe with a fresh twist. I promise once you make them, they’ll become a favorite in your recipe rotation too! So grab your squash and get baking—you’re going to love every glorious bite.
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Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delightful side dish with these Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds, featuring tender yellow squash slices coated in a flavorful blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, and seasoned breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection for a crispy and cheesy treat perfect as an appetizer or side.
Ingredients
Squash
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Cheese and Coating
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray, for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it using nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Toss Squash Slices: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced yellow squash with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss well to evenly coat each slice with the seasoning and oil.
- Mix Cheese and Breadcrumbs: In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, seasoned breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Coat Squash Rounds: Press each seasoned squash slice into the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are generously coated to create a flavorful crust.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the coated squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, then bake for 20–25 minutes. Flip the rounds halfway through baking to achieve an even golden brown and crispy texture on both sides.
- Serve Warm: Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and serve the cheesy squash rounds warm as a tasty side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- You can substitute yellow squash with zucchini for a different but equally delicious variation.
- For extra crispiness, broil the squash rounds for the last 1–2 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
- Ensure squash slices are of even thickness (about 1/4 inch) for uniform cooking and crispiness.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for the best melt and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8 rounds
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
