This Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash is a bright and tasty dish! Each squash is filled with a cheesy mixture that makes it creamy and delicious. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun side!
I love how colorful this dish looks on my table. Plus, it’s super easy to make. Just scoop, stuff, bake, and enjoy! And hey, who can resist cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This dish shines with medium yellow squash, giving it a soft texture and mild flavor. If yellow squash isn’t available, zucchini is a great substitute. Just be aware that zucchini may have more moisture.
Shredded Chicken: For a quick option, use rotisserie chicken. If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the chicken or replace it with cooked quinoa or black beans to add protein.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara or homemade if you have some on hand. Tomato sauce works just fine too! For a twist, try using pesto for a different flavor.
Cheese: While mozzarella is fantastic, feel free to mix it up! Cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses can be delightful. Vegan cheese is also a great option if you want a dairy-free version.
How Do You Get the Squash Just Right?
The key to perfect stuffed squash lies in preparing the squash. To ensure they cook evenly and hold the filling, follow these steps:
- Choose medium-sized squash for a good balance of flesh and skin.
- When slicing, ensure you do it evenly to create a stable base.
- Don’t over-scoop the insides; leave enough flesh for structure and flavor.
- Baking them briefly before stuffing allows for easier filling and enhances their natural sweetness.
These techniques will help you create a consistent and tasty dish every time. Enjoy cooking!
Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (optional)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (or tomato sauce)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, making the total time around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and enjoyable way to put dinner on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Squash:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the yellow squash thoroughly and slice each one in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the seeds and some of the soft flesh, creating hollow boat shapes. Be careful to leave enough squash to hold the filling!
2. Baking the Squash:
Next, brush the cut sides of the squash halves lightly with olive oil. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet or in an ovenproof dish. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes—this will help soften them just a bit.
3. Mixing the Filling:
While the squash is baking, grab a mixing bowl. Combine the shredded cooked chicken (if you’re using it), marinara sauce, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, and a little salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed!
4. Stuffing the Squash:
Take the squash out of the oven. It’s time to fill each half with your chicken and sauce mixture. Make sure to pack it in there nicely!
5. Adding Cheese:
Now, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and some grated Parmesan over the top of each filled squash. Cheese makes everything better!
6. Baking Again:
Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and nicely golden brown on top.
7. Serving:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh or dried parsley if you like, and then serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini is a great substitute for yellow squash and will work just as well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that zucchini may have slightly more moisture, so you might want to adjust the baking time a bit.
How Do 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) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken. You can add extra veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
What Other Sauces Can I Use?
If you’re looking for a twist, feel free to swap the marinara sauce for pesto or alfredo sauce. Both will give a different flavor profile and enhance the dish’s creaminess!
