Description
Crispy baked cheesy squash rounds featuring thinly sliced yellow squash coated in olive oil and seasonings, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful, healthy, and easy side dish.
Ingredients
2 medium yellow squash (or zucchini), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, toss the squash rounds with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they do not overlap.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over each squash round.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end until bubbly and lightly browned—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
This recipe is vegetarian, gluten-free, and low calorie.
Substitute zucchini for yellow squash or mix both for color variety.
Try different cheeses like sharp cheddar or gouda for richer flavor.
For a low-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella or reduce cheese quantity.
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in oven for best texture.
Freezing is not recommended as it causes sogginess.
To make vegan, replace cheeses with vegan alternatives or sprinkle nutritional yeast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
