This Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash is a tasty way to enjoy your veggies! With cheesy goodness inside and a nice pop of color outside, it makes a delightful side dish or snack.
Who doesn’t love the combo of cheese and squash? I love to sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top for that melty magic. Give it a try—it’s simple and oh-so-yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! If you’re unable to find yellow squash, zucchini works well as a substitute and has a similar texture. I find the yellow offers a nice color contrast, though!
Chicken: Adding shredded chicken gives the dish protein. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, skip the chicken or try using black beans or lentils for added texture and nutrition.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltiness. If you want more flavor, consider using cheddar or Gouda. For vegan options, try dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
Marinara Sauce: A great way to add extra flavor! If you don’t have marinara, you could use salsa or even a cream sauce. Just be aware that the flavor profile will shift a bit!
How Do I Create Perfectly Stuffed Squash Boats?
Stuffing the squash boats is key for a great final dish! Here’s how to get those boats just right:
- First, be gentle when scooping out the squash. Leave a bit of flesh on the edges for support.
- Chop reserve squash flesh finely to help it blend into your filling for better texture.
- Mix well! Ensure everything—chicken, sauce, and seasonings—are combined so each bite is flavorful.
- Don’t overfill the boats; they need room to cook evenly. A heaping spoonful works perfectly!
By following these tips, your stuffed squash will turn out nicely cooked and packed with delicious cheesy goodness! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional for protein)
- 1/2 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional garnish: dried parsley or basil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 20-25 minutes for baking. So, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes total to have delicious stuffed yellow squash ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be ready when you finish preparing the squash!
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash under cool running water. Cut each squash in half lengthwise, creating long “boats.” Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh. Be careful to leave enough of the shell intact to hold the filling. Don’t forget to reserve the scooped-out flesh and chop it finely!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This adds lots of flavor to your filling.
4. Cook the Squash Flesh:
Add the finely chopped squash flesh to the skillet and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, just until it softens. Then, remove the skillet from heat.
5. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken (if using), sautéed onion and garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together well so every bite is full of flavor!
6. Fill the Squash Boats:
Spoon the delicious filling evenly into each squash boat. Don’t be shy—let’s make it hearty!
7. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the filling in each squash. Then finish off with a little sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra cheesy goodness!
8. Bake:
Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the squash is tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, you can garnish with dried parsley or basil if you like. Serve them warm, and enjoy your cheesy, flavorful stuffed yellow squash—a simple and satisfying dish!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for yellow squash, zucchini can be a great substitute. They both have a similar texture and flavor profile, so feel free to use whichever squash you have on hand!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the shredded chicken. You can boost the nutritional value by adding cooked lentils or black beans to the filling instead.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Squash?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed squash before baking! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer!
