This healthy cheesy stuffed yellow squash is a fun and tasty way to enjoy veggies! It’s filled with gooey cheese and hearty ingredients, making it both delicious and satisfying.
Honestly, who knew squash could be this exciting? I love making it for dinner and watching my family gobble it up! Serve it with a side salad for an easy meal that’s good for you.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Medium yellow squash is perfect for stuffing due to its shape and flavor. If not available, zucchini works great as a substitute, offering a similar taste and texture.
Chicken: I love adding shredded cooked chicken for extra protein and heartiness. However, if you’re vegetarian or don’t have chicken, you can leave it out or use black beans for a protein boost.
Cheeses: Reduced-fat mozzarella is nice for keeping the dish lighter. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cheese. Nutritional yeast also gives a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
Veggies: Onions, bell peppers, and garlic are a flavorful base. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even corn for extra color and nutrients.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Squash for Stuffing?
Preparing the squash is simple but crucial for a good stuffing experience. Follow these steps:
- Wash the squash and slice each one lengthwise. Make sure to be careful with the knife.
- Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and some flesh to make space for the filling. Aim for a shallow cavity, so the squash doesn’t break apart.
- Set the hollowed-out squash halves aside and use them as vessels for all the delicious filling!
This technique ensures that each half holds the filling well while also cooking evenly. Plus, it helps the squash become tender without becoming mushy.
Healthy Cheesy Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium yellow squash
- 1/2 cup shredded cooked chicken breast (optional for extra protein)
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/3 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato sauce or marinara sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake. So, you can have a nutritious and tasty dish ready in around 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the squash.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash thoroughly. Cut each squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create a shallow cavity for stuffing. Be gentle so you don’t break the squash. Set aside all your hollowed squash halves.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
4. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, shredded chicken (if you’re using it), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, and half of each cheese (mozzarella and Parmesan). Stir everything well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff the Squash:
Now, take the filling mixture and spoon it evenly into each hollowed yellow squash half. Don’t skimp on the filling—it’s the best part!
6. Add Cheese Topping:
Place the stuffed squash halves in a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of each stuffed squash.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the stuffed squash in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs if you like. Serve warm as a delightful side dish or a light main course.
Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful healthy cheesy stuffed yellow squash!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great alternative. It has a similar texture and works wonderfully for stuffing.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can omit the chicken and replace it with additional vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even quinoa for added texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, gently warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can add a sprinkle of cheese on top and pop it back in the oven for a few minutes to refresh the dish!
What Can I Serve with Stuffed Yellow Squash?
Stuffed yellow squash pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or pasta for a more filling meal.
