This easy cheesy stuffed yellow squash is a fun and tasty dish. Tender yellow squash is filled with a delicious mix of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, making it a delightful meal or side!
Whenever I make this, my kitchen smells amazing! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. I love serving it warm—perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual lunch with friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow squash: Choose medium-sized ones for the best balance of flavor and texture. If yellow squash isn’t available, zucchini works as a great alternative!
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella and Parmesan for that perfect cheesy goodness. You can swap mozzarella for pepper jack for a bit of spice or use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are great, but panko crumbs will give you a crunchier topping. If gluten-free is what you need, there are plenty of gluten-free breadcrumb options out there.
Chicken: While shredded chicken adds protein, you can easily skip it if you’re vegetarian. Adding cooked quinoa or lentils can also make a protein-packed filling!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Tender Stuffed Squash?
The key to achieving tender stuffed squash is to ensure you pre-cook the squash a bit. Start by slicing it in half and scooping out the insides to create a cavity. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb the flavors. Here are a few tips:
- Preheat your oven early, so it’s hot when you place the squash inside.
- Cook the onion and garlic until they are soft to enhance the flavor of your filling.
- Check for tenderness by poking the squash with a fork before adding the filling. It should be slightly soft but not mushy!
Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked and shredded chicken (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, making a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a delicious weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your squash cooks evenly and gets nice and golden.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash and slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the seeds and some flesh from each half to create a cavity. You want to leave a sturdy shell, so don’t scoop too deep! Keep the scooped-out flesh aside for later.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
4. Mix the Filling:
Now, add the chopped squash flesh to the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the squash is tender. In a mixing bowl, combine this mixture with the shredded chicken (if using), mozzarella cheese (save a little for the topping), Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
5. Stuff the Squash:
Take the cheesy filling and spoon it evenly into each hollowed squash half. Make sure to pack it in nicely!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Arrange the stuffed squash in a baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When they’re ready, remove the stuffed squash from the oven. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or herbs on top for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious cheesy stuffed yellow squash!
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is perfect for this recipe, you can also use zucchini or even acorn squash for a different flavor and presentation. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of squash you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the shredded chicken and add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling. You could also add beans or lentils for extra protein.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Squash?
Yes, you can freeze stuffed squash! Before baking, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
