This Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash is a fun dish that combines fresh squash with creamy cheese and tasty herbs. It’s perfect for a light meal or a snack!
Honestly, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying that cheesy goodness. I love making these for friends—they never believe how simple they are to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Fresh yellow squash adds a sweet, mild flavor. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great substitute. Both have a similar texture and taste when cooked.
Shredded Chicken: This ingredient is optional, but it adds protein. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leave it out for a vegetarian option. Instead, try adding some black beans or cooked quinoa!
Marinara Sauce: If you want a twist, you can use pesto for a different flavor. For a lighter sauce, consider using diced tomatoes with herbs. Each option will give the filling a unique taste!
Cheese: Mozzarella is perfect for its meltiness, but feel free to mix it with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a stronger flavor. Vegan cheese works well if you’re avoiding dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Squash?
Preparing the yellow squash is important for getting the right texture. Here’s how to do it:
- First, wash and cut the squash in half lengthwise, exposing the inner seeds.
- Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and flesh, but leave a little around the edge to keep the shape.
- By lightly seasoning the squash before stuffing, you enhance the flavor throughout the dish.
This technique ensures your stuffed squash is tender and flavorful when baked. Enjoy cooking!
Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Squash:
- 4 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dried herb flakes, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying your cheesy stuffed yellow squash in about 35 minutes total! Perfect for a quick, healthy meal any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s hot and ready for your stuffed squash!
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash well and cut each one in half lengthwise. Take a spoon and scoop out the seeds plus a little bit of the flesh, creating a hollow center for your yummy filling. Make sure to leave enough squash around the edges to hold everything together.
3. Season and Arrange:
Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper on the insides of each squash half. Place them in a baking dish, cut side up, ready for stuffing!
4. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken (if you’re using it), marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Stuff the Squash:
Spoon the filling mixture evenly into each squash half, pressing it down slightly to pack it in nicely.
6. Top with Cheese:
Generously sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the stuffed squash. The cheese will melt beautifully as it cooks!
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want the squash to be tender and the cheese to be bubbly and lightly browned on top.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or dried herbs on top for extra flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your warm, cheesy stuffed squash either as a tasty side dish or a light main course! It’s simple and oh-so-delicious!
Happy cooking! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works as a great substitute for yellow squash due to its similar texture. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as zucchini might cook a bit faster.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
For a vegan version, simply omit the chicken and use a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for added flavor and texture!
What Should I Do with Leftover Stuffed Squash?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them for a faster option.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed squash in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove the cover and bake as directed, adding an extra few minutes if needed due to the chill from the fridge.
