This Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash is a fun way to enjoy veggies! You’ll love the creamy cheese and tasty herbs filling that makes each bite wonderful.
Honestly, who knew squash could taste this good? I like to serve it as a side dish or even enjoy it as a light meal. Perfect for summer days when you want something fresh! 🌼
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Choose medium-sized yellow squash for even cooking. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well as a substitute – it’s similar in texture and flavor.
Shredded Chicken: This ingredient adds protein, but feel free to omit it for a vegetarian option. You can also use cooked ground turkey or even beans for protein if you prefer.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness, but you can mix in cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Also, consider using dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a lactose-free option.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is convenient, but homemade sauce is always better! You can swap it with salsa or pesto for a fun twist. Keep in mind the seasoning in your sauce might affect the overall taste.
How Do You Make Sure Squash is Tender and Not Soggy?
To get the squash just right, you want it tender but not mushy! Start by scooping the seeds out to create a good cavity for stuffing without overdoing it.
- Preheat the oven so your squash cooks evenly.
- Watch the cooking time; bake for about 25-30 minutes until you see bubbling cheese and tender squash. If you find it’s cooking too fast, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- If your squash is too watery, you can sprinkle a little salt inside the hollow parts before filling and let it sit for a few minutes to draw out moisture.
These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance to enjoy this stuffed dish!
Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional for added protein)
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious, quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, give your yellow squash a good wash and slice each one in half lengthwise. With a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to make a little hollow space in each half. Don’t scoop too much, as you want to keep the squash sturdy for stuffing!
2. Arrange the Squash:
Place the prepared squash halves cut side up in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. This will hold your delightful filling!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and fragrant. Make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine any shredded chicken you’d like to use, the sautéed onion and garlic, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed.
5. Stuff the Squash:
Now comes the fun part! Spoon the cheesy filling evenly into each hollowed-out squash half, packing it in nicely. Once they’re all filled, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top to create a yummy cheesy crust.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Put the stuffed squash in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the squash is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, carefully remove the squash from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or dried herbs if you’d like, to add a touch of color. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of your stuffed yellow squash!
This recipe is a fantastic side dish or a light meal option, offering a delightful balance of tender squash and a rich, cheesy filling. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is perfect for this recipe, zucchini can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if your squash is larger or smaller.
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 a microwave for quick reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the shredded chicken and consider adding cooked quinoa, black beans, or extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for protein. You can also adjust the seasonings to keep the flavors bold and delicious!
What Can I Serve with Stuffed Squash?
This stuffed squash pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some steamed veggies. You can also serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal option!
