Golden, crispy, and oozing with melted cheese—cheesy baked squash rounds are the perfect way to enjoy squash! Whether as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Super easy – Just slice, season, and bake!
✔️ Healthier alternative – Baked, not fried.
✔️ Kid-approved – Even picky eaters love them.
✔️ Customizable – Swap cheeses, add spice, or make it keto-friendly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Yellow squash
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Breadcrumbs
- Olive oil
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Salt & pepper
Pro Tip: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones!
How to Make Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Squash
Wash and slice the squash into ¼-inch thick rounds.
3. Season the Squash
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Brush squash rounds with olive oil and coat them in the breadcrumb mixture.
“This seasoning mix gives the squash a crispy, flavorful bite!”
4. Assemble & Bake
- Arrange rounds on the baking sheet without overlapping.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden.
Want extra crispiness? Broil for the last 2 minutes!
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Pair with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Nutritional Benefits of Squash
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~85 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fiber | 1.5g |
| Calcium | 120mg |
“Yellow squash is low in calories but high in vitamins A & C, making it a guilt-free cheesy snack!”
Variations to Try
Different Squash Options
Swap yellow squash for zucchini, butternut squash, or pattypan squash for a new flavor!
Make It Keto-Friendly
- Skip breadcrumbs – Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead.
- Use full-fat cheese – Cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella work well.
Spicy Twist
- Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.
- Drizzle with hot sauce after baking.
Best Ways to Serve
As a Side Dish
Pairs well with:
- Grilled chicken or steak (better than fries!)
- Pasta dishes (for a crispy contrast)
- Seafood like salmon or tilapia
As a Party Appetizer
Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.
As a Light Meal
Pair with a Caesar salad or tomato soup for a balanced meal.
“Think of these as mini squash pizzas—top with marinara & pepperoni for a fun twist!”
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
What temperature do you bake squash at?
For the best texture and flavor, bake squash at 375°F (190°C). This allows the squash to become tender while maintaining a slight crispiness. If you prefer extra crunch, broil for the last 2 minutes.
What’s the difference between a squash and a zucchini?
Squash and zucchini belong to the same family but have some key differences:
Color: Zucchini is typically green, while yellow squash is, well, yellow!
Shape: Zucchini has a uniform cylindrical shape, whereas yellow squash tapers at the neck.
Texture: Yellow squash tends to have a slightly softer texture, while zucchini holds a firmer bite.
Both can be used interchangeably in many recipes, including this one!
How to roast squash Jamie Oliver style?
Jamie Oliver often roasts squash with simple yet bold flavors. To follow his method:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the squash into chunks or wedges (no need to peel for some varieties).
Season well with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Roast for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway until caramelized and golden.
For an extra Jamie touch, drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with crumbled feta before serving!
How do you make squash crispy in the oven?
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs—they create a crunchier texture.
Spread the squash rounds in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even baking.
Broil for the last 2 minutes to get a golden, crispy finish.
Try an air fryer! If you want ultimate crispiness, cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss Out on This Cheesy Delight!
If there’s one thing this recipe proves, it’s that the simplest ingredients can create the most unforgettable flavors. With just a handful of kitchen staples, you can whip up a dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and absolutely addictive—a snack or side that everyone will love.
Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy night in, impressing family with a new favorite side dish, or serving up something irresistible at a gathering or party, these Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds will disappear fast! They’re golden, bubbly, and bursting with flavor, making them the ultimate comfort food without the guilt.
For a complete meal, pair these squash rounds with a hearty main dish like our Slow Cooker Chicken with Rice and Mushroom Soup or the sweet and savory Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. If you’re in the mood for something creamy and indulgent, our Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a perfect match.
Looking for a breakfast twist? Try these squash rounds alongside our Omelette in Slow Cooker for an easy and satisfying morning meal. Or, if you’re craving a cozy seafood dish, our Shrimp Stew is a great addition to your dinner table.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab that squash, sprinkle on the cheese, and let your oven work its magic! One bite, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t try these sooner.
Cheesy Baked Squash Rounds
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the yellow squash into ¼-inch thick rounds.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Brush both sides of each squash round with olive oil, then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated squash rounds on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the squash rounds.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.