Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds
When it comes to snacking, few things can compare to the delightful crunch and creamy goodness of Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds. These little bites are bursting with flavor and richness, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike. Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy round that practically melts in your mouth. Doesn’t that sound delectable? Plus, this recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, so you can indulge without spending hours in the kitchen.
Here’s an interesting tidbit: squash is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients, making these cheesy rounds a guilt-free indulgence! Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer for a family gathering or a snack for your kids after school, these cheesy squash rounds are a hit. If you enjoy other uncomplicated crowd-pleasers like our Crispy Cauliflower Bites, you’re definitely going to want to add this recipe to your repertoire. So grab your ingredients, let’s dive into this cheesy adventure!
What are Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds?
You might be wondering, “Why on earth are we calling these crispy little delights squash rounds?” Well, it’s quite simple—this dish showcases the star ingredient, squash, sliced into little rounds, coated in a crunchy, cheesy layer that’s begging for your attention! Plus, what’s more fun than crispy snacks that double as veggies? As they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these crunchy rounds are surely on the path to win hearts. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s make some cheesy magic happen!
Why You’ll Love Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds
The beauty of Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds lies in their delightful combination of flavors and textures. First and foremost, the crispy coating made of breadcrumbs and cheese gives them an irresistible crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender squash inside. Next, making this dish at home can actually save you money compared to pre-packaged appetizers. You won’t break the bank here! Finally, you can personalize these rounds with your favorite spices or cheeses, making them a truly unique dish to impress your family and friends. Why not try them alongside our Roasted Veggie Platter for a fully-loaded meal? You won’t regret it—jump in and get baking!
How to Make Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds
Quick Overview
Creating Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds is as simple as slicing, dipping, and baking! With minimal ingredients and just about 25 minutes of your time, you can enjoy a snack that is both delicious and satisfying. You’ll love how these rounds come out perfectly crispy every time, making them an awesome addition to your recipe collection!
Key Ingredients for Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into ¼ inch rounds
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great!)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- Olive oil spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prep the Squash: Wash and slice the yellow squash into ¼ inch rounds. A sharper knife will make this process easier.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
- Dip the Rounds: Take each squash round and dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated. Let the excess egg drip off before transferring it to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Form the Coating: Press the squash into the breadcrumb mixture to adhere the coating well. Place the coated rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the squash slices are coated.
- Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the squash rounds with olive oil spray to promote crispiness.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, flipping the rounds halfway through to ensure even crisping. They should be golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cheesy squash rounds cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!
What to Serve Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds With
Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds are perfect on their own, but there are plenty of delicious sides that can elevate your meal. Consider pairing them with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping, or serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. You could even make it a casual appetizer spread with hummus and veggie sticks! A chilled glass of homemade lemonade would also complement these savory bites beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfecting Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a twist!
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Even Slices: Ensure you cut the squash into even rounds for uniform cooking—this prevents some pieces from being undercooked.
- No Egg Alternative: For a vegan version, replace the egg with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water to bind the crumbs.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is doubtful considering how delicious these are), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, reheat them in the oven at 375°F until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. If you want to freeze them, layer the rounds between parchment paper in an airtight container, where they can last for up to a month. Reheat straight from the freezer for a quick snack!
Try out these Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds and get ready for a flavor explosion! Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll be a culinary hero in your home. Happy cooking!
Crispy Baked Cheesy Squash Rounds
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and slice the yellow squash into ¼ inch rounds.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each squash round into the beaten egg, letting excess egg drip off.
- Press the squash rounds into the breadcrumb mixture to adhere the coating.
- Place the coated rounds on the prepared baking sheet and repeat until all squash slices are coated.
- Lightly spray the tops of the coated rounds with olive oil spray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping the rounds halfway through.
- Remove from the oven when golden brown and let cool slightly before serving.
