How to Make Squash and Cheese – A Simple Oven-Baked Favorite

Squash and Cheese 🧀

Introduction

This Squash and Cheese recipe is proof that simple can be spectacular. With just a handful of ingredients—sliced squash, cheddar, parmesan, and pantry spices—this quick side dish bakes up golden, bubbly, and packed with cheesy flavor. Whether you’re serving it alongside baked chicken, turkey wings, or a big Southern spread, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s fast enough for any weeknight.


Why I Love This Recipe

Sometimes you just need a dish that’s:

  • Fast and flavorful (ready in 20 minutes!)
  • Low effort, high reward
  • Cheesy, melty, and golden on top
  • Kid-friendly and veggie-forward

This is one of those no-fuss recipes you’ll memorize after the first time.


Ingredients

  • Yellow squash or zucchini, thinly sliced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet or shallow baking dish with parchment paper or non-stick spray.

2️⃣ Slice the Squash

Wash and slice squash into thin rounds (about ¼ inch thick). Spread into a single layer on your baking sheet or dish.

3️⃣ Season and Cheese

Sprinkle evenly with salt and black pepper.
Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese and grated parmesan.

4️⃣ Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly and squash is tender.

Let cool slightly and serve warm.


Tips for Success

  • Slice squash evenly for uniform cooking.
  • Add garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth.
  • Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end if you like an extra-crispy top.
  • Double the batch—this one disappears fast!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This cheesy squash goes perfectly with:

Serve with cornbread, salad, or baked mac for a full Southern-style meal.


Storage and Leftover Tips

  • Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to crisp it back up.
  • Avoid freezing—squash holds too much water for great texture after thawing.

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Love easy comfort sides? Try these next:


Final Thoughts

This Squash and Cheese bake is the kind of side dish that makes you look like you did a lot more work than you did. It’s fast, flavorful, and hits the spot every time. With gooey cheddar, savory parm, and perfectly roasted squash, it’ll be your new favorite way to use up garden veggies—or just get dinner on the table fast.

Made it? Tag @ChefManiac with your cheesy squash creations! Follow Chef Maniac for more easy weeknight wins and Southern-inspired side dishes.