This Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash is a tasty treat! With fresh yellow squash filled with creamy cheese and herbs, it’s comforting and packed with flavor.
Making this dish feels like a fun cooking adventure! I love how the gooey cheese melts perfectly. Plus, it’s a great way to eat your veggies without even noticing! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Medium-sized yellow squashes are best as they’re tender and have a mild flavor. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well as a substitute!
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness and Parmesan for its salty kick. If you want to switch it up, try cheddar or a vegan cheese blend if you need a dairy-free version.
Chicken: Shredded chicken is optional but adds protein. If you’re vegetarian, you could use cooked quinoa or black beans instead. Both add heartiness without meat.
Crushed Tomatoes: You can use store-bought crushed tomatoes or puree fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Tomato sauce works too, but it might be thinner, so reduce the amount a bit.
How Do You Prepare the Squash for Stuffing?
Getting the squash ready is simple, but it requires a little care. You want to make sure the halves hold up when stuffed and baked.
- Start by washing the squashes and cutting them in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, gently scoop out the seeds and some flesh. Aim for about 1/4 inch of flesh around the edges to keep the boat stable.
- This creates a nice space for the cheese mixture while keeping the squash from falling apart.
Take your time on this step, as properly scooped squash will make for better stuffing and eating!
Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium yellow squashes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or mozzarella blend)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast (optional for protein)
- 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake, totaling about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your stuffed squash will bake evenly and beautifully!
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squashes thoroughly. Cut them in half lengthwise, and using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create a hollow “boat.” Be careful to leave enough squash around the edges so they stay sturdy.
3. Place Squash in Baking Dish:
Place the squash halves cut side up in a baking dish. This will hold in any juices while they bake!
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the insides of the squash. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to flavor.
5. Make the Stuffing:
In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken (if using), minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, half of the mozzarella, the Parmesan cheese, and the dried Italian herbs. Stir until well combined to create the stuffing mixture.
6. Stuff the Squash:
Spoon the mixture evenly into each squash boat, packing it in nicely!
7. Add More Cheese:
Top each stuffed squash with the remaining mozzarella cheese for that deliciously cheesy topping.
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool Down:
Once done, remove the squash from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle!
10. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a touch of color and flavor before serving. Enjoy your warm and cheesy stuffed squash!
This dish is a delightful mix of flavors and can be a lovely light main course or a perfect side dish for any meal. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Can I Substitute Yellow Squash with Zucchini?
Absolutely! Zucchini works perfectly in this recipe. Just follow the same preparation steps, and you’ll have a deliciously cheesy dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is gluten-free as it stands since it doesn’t contain any bread or gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure all your additional ingredients (like shredded cheese) are certified gluten-free.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can omit the chicken and replace it with cooked quinoa, black beans, or even more vegetables like chopped spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure your cheese is vegetarian if needed!
