This Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash is a great way to enjoy a tasty veggie! Soft yellow squash is filled with a cheesy mixture that makes it hard to resist.
I mean, who can say no to melted cheese? I love serving these at dinner and watching everyone go back for seconds. Simple, delicious, and oh-so-cheesy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the show! I recommend using medium-sized yellow squash for the perfect texture. If they aren’t available, zucchini can be a great alternative.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a nice flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can work well if you want a little kick.
Diced Tomatoes: I often use canned diced tomatoes because they save time. If they’re out of season, you can use fresh tomatoes or even substitute with salsa for added flavor.
Bell Peppers: Any color works! Red, yellow, or green bell peppers add crunch. If these aren’t your favorite, you can go for corn or mushrooms for a different twist.
Fresh Greens: Spinach or kale adds nutrition but can be skipped if you prefer a cheesier stuffing. Alternatively, you could use arugula or another leafy green you enjoy!
How Do I Prepare the Squash for Stuffing?
Preparing the squash properly is crucial for this recipe. You want them to be nice and tender but still hold together. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some flesh, creating enough space for the filling.
- Be gentle when scooping so you don’t break the squash walls. You can keep the flesh for the stuffing!
- This creates a little boat that holds all that cheesy goodness, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Taking the time to prepare your squash this way will lead to a much better stuffed squash experience!
Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Squash:
- 4 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend of your choice)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach or kale (optional)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake, making it a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. The delicious cheesy goodness will be ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be perfectly hot when it’s time to bake the stuffed squash!
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash thoroughly. Cut each one in half lengthwise. With a spoon, scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to create a bowl. Make sure to save the scooped-out flesh for the filling.
3. Chop & Sauté the Veggies:
Dice the reserved squash flesh into small pieces. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté them for about 2 minutes until they are fragrant and slightly translucent.
4. Mix in the Remaining Ingredients:
Add the chopped squash, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and spinach or kale (if you’re using it) to the skillet. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes until the veggies are softened.
5. Cheese It Up:
Remove the skillet from heat and then stir in the shredded cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until everything is well combined and cheesy!
6. Stuff the Squash:
Spoon the cheesy mixture generously into each squash half. Pack it in nice and full for maximum flavor!
7. Bake:
Place the stuffed squash halves on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese on top is melted and slightly browned.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the stuffed squash from the oven. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful cheesy dish!
FAQ: Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is perfect for this recipe, you can use zucchini or even acorn squash as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time if they vary in size.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheese?
If you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free, you can use a vegan cheese substitute. Nutritional yeast is also a great option to add a cheesy flavor while keeping it plant-based!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just stuff the squash and bake it right before serving for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave, making sure the cheese is melted again for a delicious meal!
