This Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash is a fun and tasty dish! It features fresh yellow squash filled with gooey cheese, herbs, and a little bit of breadcrumbs for crunch.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love making these when I want something special but simple. You can serve these as a side or a light meal—everyone will want a bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: The star of this dish! Look for firm, bright yellow squash. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well too. Just keep the cooking time similar for them both.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives great meltiness and flavor, while Parmesan adds a nice nutty taste. You can swap mozzarella for Cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer. Adjust the proportions as needed to match your cheese preference!
Protein: Optional cooked chicken or ground turkey adds heartiness. If you want a vegetarian option, skip the meat altogether or add some chopped mushrooms or beans for extra protein.
Breadcrumbs: They add crunch to the filling. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for texture. I have also used crushed crackers in a pinch!
How Do You Get Perfectly Tender Squash?
Getting your squash tender and cooked just right is key for delicious stuffed squash. Follow these tips:
- Cut the squash evenly for consistent cooking. Make sure to scoop out enough flesh to create space for the filling but leave enough for flavor!
- Pre-baking the squash halves can help. You can place them cut-side down on a baking sheet with a splash of water and steam for about 10 minutes before filling them in.
This way, your stuffed squash will be nicely tender and ready to soak in all those flavors from the filling! Plus, check for doneness by poking it with a fork; it should pierce easily but still hold its shape.
Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium yellow squashes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped cooked chicken or ground turkey (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mixed dried herbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 25 minutes to cook, resulting in a total of approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. Quick and simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking your stuffed squash.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squashes thoroughly. Cut each squash in half lengthwise. Take a spoon and gently scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create a hollow in each half for the filling. Set aside the scooped flesh, as you’ll use it in the filling.
3. Cook the Filling:
Finely chop the scooped-out squash flesh. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the finely chopped squash flesh and the optional cooked chicken or turkey to the skillet. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Stuff the Squash Halves:
Evenly spoon the cheesy mixture into the hollowed-out halves of the squash.
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the filled squash halves.
7. Bake:
Place the stuffed squash halves onto a baking sheet or dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the squash out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish the stuffed squash with fresh parsley or additional herbs if you like. Serve warm, either as a side dish or a tasty light meal!
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy stuffed squash that’s both comforting and full of flavor!
FAQ about Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is recommended for its flavor and texture, you can use zucchini or even bell peppers as alternatives. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different vegetables may require slight adjustments.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheese?
If you’re looking for substitutes, you can use any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Cheddar. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat cheese or dairy-free cheese alternatives. Just ensure they melt well!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for quick heating!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and hollow out the squash a day in advance. Just keep the components stored separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake them. This makes for a quick and easy meal on a busy day!
