Parmesan Roasted Squash

Parmesan Roasted Squash is the perfect side dish that will make your taste buds sing with joy. Tender, sweet squash roasted to perfection with a savory, golden crust of Parmesan cheese—every bite is a delicious balance of crispy, cheesy, and subtly sweet. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or looking for a new side to bring to your next gathering, this dish is simple, vibrant, and full of flavor. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love Parmesan Roasted Squash

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s all about the combination of rich, savory, and subtly sweet flavors that come together effortlessly. Here’s why you’re going to adore this dish:

A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory:

The natural sweetness of the squash perfectly complements the salty, umami-packed Parmesan cheese. It’s a mouthwatering combo that’s totally addictive.

Easy to Make:

You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to nail this recipe. With minimal prep time and a simple roasting process, you’ll have a dish that’s packed with flavor without breaking a sweat.

Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing:

Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this side dish is super versatile. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pasta, or even a fresh salad—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.

Quick Cooking Time:

The squash cooks up quickly, and you get to enjoy crispy, cheesy goodness in just 30 minutes! It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect when you’re craving something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Let’s talk about the ingredients that come together to create this irresistible dish. Don’t worry; they’re simple and easy to find—but the flavor they create is anything but basic!

For the Squash:

• 1 medium to large yellow squash (or zucchini, if you prefer)—you’ll need a fresh, firm squash that’s ready to roast.
• Olive oil—this helps the squash roast to a beautiful golden brown and adds a little richness.
• Salt—a pinch or two to season the squash before roasting.
• Black pepper—freshly cracked for a little heat and depth of flavor.
• Garlic powder—adds a savory, aromatic base to the squash.

For the Parmesan Crust:

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese—this is the star of the dish! It gives the squash a cheesy, crispy coating that elevates the entire dish.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)—this helps create a crispy crust along with the Parmesan.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley—optional, for a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme—adds an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the squash.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this mouthwatering side dish? Let’s dive into the steps!

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures that the squash gets crispy and perfectly roasted while staying tender inside.

Prep the Squash:

Wash and dry the squash, then cut off the ends. Slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds or half-moons (depending on your preference). Try to keep the slices relatively even for uniform cooking.

Season the Squash:

Place the sliced squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss everything together to coat the squash evenly with the seasoning.

Prepare the Parmesan Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, and dried thyme. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

Coat the Squash:

Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each squash slice. Don’t be shy with the cheese—it’s the best part!

Roast to Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the squash halfway through to ensure it cooks evenly. The squash should be tender and golden, with a crispy Parmesan crust on top.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once the squash is beautifully roasted, remove it from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with additional parsley, if desired. It’s a simple yet impressive side dish that’s sure to steal the show!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories per serving: 160
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 330mg
Total Carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin D: 0mcg
Calcium: 160mg
Iron: 1mg
Potassium: 380mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Squash

While this dish is perfect all on its own, it also pairs wonderfully with many other dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions to take your meal to the next level:

Serve with Roasted Meat:

Pair this Parmesan Roasted Squash with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or beef to create a well-rounded meal. The richness of the Parmesan and the squash’s sweetness is a perfect contrast to savory proteins.

Add to a Salad:

Toss these crispy squash slices onto a fresh green salad to add flavor and texture. They work particularly well with mixed greens, arugula, or a kale salad.

With Pasta:

Serve this squash alongside your favorite pasta dish—whether it’s a rich, creamy Alfredo or a light, tomato-based sauce, this roasted veggie will be the perfect accompaniment.

For a Light Meal:

If you’re looking for a light meal on its own, try pairing the roasted squash with some whole grain bread and a side of hummus or Greek yogurt for dipping.

Additional Tips

Experiment with Different Squash Varieties:

While yellow squash is classic, you can also use zucchini, acorn squash, or even butternut squash for different flavor profiles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you use a denser squash.

Make It Dairy-Free:

If you’re avoiding dairy, simply omit the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast as a substitute. You can still achieve a deliciously savory flavor without the cheese!

Pre-Chop for Convenience:

You can prepare the squash slices ahead of time, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting. Just be sure to season and coat them right before cooking.

Add a Dash of Spice:

If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle a little cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the seasoning mix. This will give the dish a nice kick without overpowering the natural flavors of the squash.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A1: Yes! If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?

A2: Store any leftover squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp it back up.

Q3: Can I make this in advance?

A3: You can prep the squash and season it ahead of time, but it’s best to roast it just before serving to maintain the crispy texture.

Q4: What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?

A4: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can substitute them with crushed crackers or even oats for a different texture.

Q5: Can I roast this at a lower temperature?

A5: Yes, you can roast the squash at 375°F (190°C), but it may take a little longer—keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

A6: Absolutely! You can toss in some carrots, bell peppers, or even Brussels sprouts for extra color and flavor.

Q7: Can I use frozen squash?

A7: Fresh squash will work best for this recipe since frozen squash tends to release too much moisture and may not crisp up properly.

Q8: Can I make this in the air fryer?

A8: Yes, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), and cook the squash for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q9: Can I make this dish vegan?

A9: To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan and use a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Q10: How do I get the squash extra crispy?

A10: Make sure to space out the squash slices on the baking sheet so they roast evenly, and don’t be afraid to generously coat them with Parmesan and breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Parmesan Roasted Squash is a side dish that’s not only incredibly easy to make but also bursting with flavor. It’s crispy, cheesy, and just the right balance of sweet and savory. Whether you’re serving it with a hearty main course or enjoying it as a light snack, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and get ready to add a new favorite recipe to your collection!

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