Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe

Zesty Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Squash takes center stage in these delightful baked squash rounds that burst with cheesy goodness.

Golden edges crisp up beautifully while a melted cheese coating adds irresistible flavor to each slice.

Seasonal vegetables never tasted so exciting with this simple yet spectacular dish.

Summer or winter squash work perfectly for this versatile recipe.

The combination of herbs and cheese creates a mouthwatering side that complements any main course.

Crisp and tender, these rounds will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to savor every delectable bite of this crowd-pleasing vegetable sensation.

Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Crunchy And Savory

  • Savor Quick Prep: Whip up this delightful dish with minimal ingredients and simple steps that anyone can master, even kitchen newbies.
  • Customize Flavor Boost: Easily swap herbs or cheese types to match your taste preferences or use what's already in your refrigerator.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Side: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a tasty vegetable side that transforms boring squash into a cheesy, crispy treat.
  • Enjoy Healthy Comfort: Combines nutritious squash with a satisfying cheesy crunch, making vegetables exciting and irresistible for kids and adults alike.

Squash Round Ingredient Rundown For Baking

Main Ingredients:
  • Yellow Squash: Fresh summer squash with a mild, slightly sweet flavor that provides a delicate base for this baked dish.
  • Breadcrumbs: Crispy coating that adds a golden, crunchy texture to the squash rounds.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that melts beautifully and adds a rich, tangy flavor to the dish.
Cheese and Herbs:
  • Parmesan Cheese, Oregano, Basil: A blend of sharp cheese and aromatic herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile of the squash rounds.
Seasoning and Coating:
  • Salt, Pepper, Olive Oil: Essential seasonings and coating that help create a flavorful and well-seasoned dish with a perfect golden exterior.

Baking Cheesy Squash Rounds With Ease

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375F (190C).

Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Create Flavor Blast Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Dried oregano
  • Fresh basil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Mix these ingredients until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 3: Prepare Squash Rounds

Grab your squash and lightly brush each round with olive oil.

Make sure both sides get a nice, even coating.

Then roll each slice in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they’re completely covered.

Step 4: Arrange On Baking Sheet

Place the coated squash rounds on your prepared baking sheet.

Make sure they’re not touching each other.

This helps them crisp up nicely.

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each round.

Step 5: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Bake for 20-25 minutes.

You’ll know they’re done when the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbly masterpiece and the edges turn crispy.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Let the squash rounds rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.

Serve these cheesy delights warm and watch them disappear!

Cheesy Squash Round Tips For Perfection

  • Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create uniform squash rounds for consistent cooking and appealing presentation.
  • Pat squash rounds dry with paper towels before coating to prevent soggy texture and ensure crispy edges.
  • Choose high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan and cheddar for richer, more complex flavor profiles.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the breadcrumb coating's taste and aroma.
  • Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a low-carb or gluten-free version.

Squash Rounds With Flavorful New Variations

  • Gluten-Free Herb Squash Rounds: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko for a celiac-friendly version with the same crispy texture.
  • Vegan Cheesy Squash Bites: Swap Parmesan and cheddar with nutritional yeast and dairy-free cheese alternatives to create a plant-based appetizer.
  • Spicy Mexican-Style Rounds: Add chili powder, cumin, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty, southwestern-inspired side dish.
  • Low-Carb Keto Squash Chips: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and add extra Parmesan for a low-carbohydrate crispy alternative.

Ways To Plate Cheesy Squash Rounds

  • Game Night Munchies: Perfect for casual gatherings, these cheesy squash rounds make excellent finger food that friends will devour during movie or game nights.
  • Fresh Herb Boost: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives right before serving to add a bright, zesty flavor and beautiful green color pop to the golden rounds.
  • Side Dish Superstar: Pair these crispy, cheesy rounds alongside grilled chicken, roasted fish, or as a delightful vegetarian option with a light mixed green salad for a complete meal.
  • Dipping Delight: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a quick garlic aioli for an extra layer of flavor that transforms these rounds into an irresistible appetizer.

Best Cheesy Squash Rounds Storage Ideas

  • Store any remaining cheesy squash rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay fresh and maintain their crispy texture.
  • Warm the rounds in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their original crispiness and prevent sogginess from microwave heating.
  • Wrap individual rounds in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month, perfect for quick future side dishes or snacks.
  • Place a paper towel in the storage container to absorb excess moisture and keep the squash rounds crisp when refrigerated.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can use zucchini, yellow squash, or even patty pan squash. Just slice them evenly and follow the same coating and baking process.

  • Do I need to remove the squash skin before making this recipe?

No, you can keep the skin on. Just wash the squash thoroughly and slice it into even rounds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written. To make it gluten-free, substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

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Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe

Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds Recipe


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4.7 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy golden cheesy baked squash rounds showcase seasonal garden goodness with irresistible Mediterranean charm. Delicate squash slices melt with rich cheese, offering a simple yet elegant side dish that elevates any meal for hungry home cooks.


Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables:

  • 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch (0.6 cm) rounds

Cheese & Breading:

  • 1 cup (240 ml/8 fl oz) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml/2 fl oz) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml/2 fl oz) breadcrumbs

Seasonings & Oil:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 375F (190C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Create a flavorful coating by combining breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over each squash round, ensuring complete coverage, then generously dredge in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture for a crispy exterior.
  4. Carefully arrange the coated squash rounds on the prepared baking sheet, leaving slight space between each piece to promote even browning.
  5. Distribute shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of each squash round, creating a golden, melty layer.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, watching for the cheese to transform into a bubbling, golden-brown topping.
  7. Remove from the oven and allow the rounds to rest for 3-4 minutes, which helps the cheese set and prevents burning, then serve immediately while warm and crisp.

Notes

  • Choose squash rounds with uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
  • Pat squash rounds dry with paper towels before coating to help breadcrumbs adhere better and create crispier edges.
  • Try different cheese varieties like Gruyère or mozzarella for unique flavor profiles and melting characteristics.
  • Consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal for a low-carb, celiac-friendly alternative without compromising crunch.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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