This Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash is a fun and tasty way to enjoy veggies! With a creamy cheese filling and just a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top, it’s delicious and comforting.
Honestly, who wouldn’t love cheesy goodness packed in a squash? I like to serve it for dinner and watch everyone go back for seconds—they can’t resist! 😂 It’s a hit every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here! If you can’t find it, zucchini works well too. It has a similar texture and flavor, just keep in mind it might have a bit more water content.
Chicken: The cooked chicken adds protein, but you can easily leave it out for a vegetarian dish. If you want, substitute with cooked quinoa or beans for more texture. They fill you up nicely!
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its meltiness! If you want a stronger taste, try mixing in some cheddar or gouda. Some people even like to use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option!
Marinara Sauce: Any pasta sauce can work in a pinch. Homemade or store-bought, the flavor is key! If you want to skip marinara, some people prefer a creamy sauce instead for a richer taste.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffed Squash Doesn’t Get Soggy?
Keeping your stuffed squash from getting soggy is all about the right preparation. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose firm squash: Make sure your squash is fresh and not overripe for better texture.
- Don’t overcook: When sautéing the filling, cook until just tender. This keeps everything from becoming too mushy in the oven.
- Bake properly: Bake at 375°F (190°C) until the squash is tender but still holds its shape.
- Let cool a bit: After baking, let them sit for a few minutes. This allows excess moisture to escape, keeping them firm!
With these tips, your Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash will turn out deliciously every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional for added protein)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or dried herbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely dish will take approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to bake. So, in total, expect it to take around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and absolutely worth it for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffed squash cooks evenly and becomes nice and tender.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash thoroughly. Slice each squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some flesh, creating quaint little boats. Be sure to save the scooped flesh for later!
3. Cook the Filling:
Take the reserved squash flesh and chop it finely. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until soft and fragrant—about 3 minutes. Add in the chopped squash flesh and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
4. Mix in the Goodies:
Now stir in the shredded chicken (if you’re using it), marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and season with salt and pepper. Let this cook for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, then remove it from heat.
5. Cheese It Up!
In the same skillet, stir in half of the mozzarella cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese into the mixture until well combined.
6. Stuff the Squash:
Arrange the squash halves on a baking sheet or in a shallow baking dish. Generously fill each boat with the cheesy mixture from the skillet.
7. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over each stuffed squash. This will create a lovely cheesy topping when baked!
8. Bake Until Perfect:
Place the baking sheet or dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Keep an eye on that cheesy goodness!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or dried herbs if desired before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish as a delicious side or a satisfying vegetarian main!
Bon appétit! 🎉
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Yes! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini makes a great substitute with a similar flavor and texture. Just follow the same steps for preparation and cooking!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the cooked chicken. You can add more vegetables like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition!
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed squash up to a day in advance. Just assemble and store in the refrigerator. Bake them right before serving—you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain the cheesy texture.
