If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe. Bursting with layers of tender yellow squash, melty cheese, and fresh herbs, this casserole is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It combines the natural sweetness of squash with the savory richness of mozzarella and Parmesan, all hugged together by fragrant olive oil and garlic. Whether you’re serving dinner for family or bringing a dish to a gathering, this recipe offers that perfect balance of rustic charm and refined taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe lies in how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s creating a creamy texture, adding depth of flavor, or bringing vibrant color to your plate. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 2 medium yellow squash or golden potatoes: Thinly sliced to create perfect layers that bake evenly and soften to delicate tenderness.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Provides a subtle tang and moisture that binds the layers without overwhelming the natural squash flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese: Offers a melty, creamy texture with a mild, rich flavor that complements the vegetables beautifully.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a golden, savory crust with an intense umami punch.
- Fresh sage or basil leaves: Inserted between layers to infuse a fragrant herbal freshness that makes each bite unique.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Drizzled generously to promote browning, add richness, and enhance the garlic’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a warm, aromatic kick that complements the herbaceous notes and cheese.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together and keep the dish balanced.
How to Make Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is just right to gently bake the squash slices, allowing them to become tender without drying out or losing their vibrant color.
Step 2: Prepare Tomato Sauce
Spread a thin, even layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. This not only adds flavor but also prevents the ingredients from sticking while creating a moist base for the layers above.
Step 3: Assemble Layers
Arrange the thin squash slices upright in the baking dish. Alternate these with layers of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese. Between the layers, tuck in fresh sage or basil leaves—this little touch will unfold wonderful herbal aromas as the casserole bakes.
Step 4: Season and Drizzle
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the layered squash and cheese. Sprinkle with minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper. This simple but vital step ensures every bite is rich, aromatic, and perfectly seasoned.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole dish with foil to keep moisture in, then place it in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, during which the squash will soften and flavors will meld beautifully.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes. This will create a golden, bubbly cheese crust that is irresistibly delicious.
Step 7: Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish with some extra fresh sage or basil leaves before serving. The bright herb garnish adds a lovely contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole.
How to Serve Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like sage or basil make a natural and fragrant garnish that highlights the casserole’s herbaceous notes. You can also consider a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra zing.
Side Dishes
This Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp mixed green salad or roasted garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or baked fish to complement the cheesy vegetable layers without overwhelming them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the casserole individually in ramekins or small baking dishes. You can also add a few cherry tomatoes or colorful bell pepper strips on the side to brighten up the plate visually and offer a fresh bite alongside the warm casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When refrigerated properly, the casserole maintains its lovely texture and flavors quite well.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole for longer storage, up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, uncovered, to revive the crispness of the cheese topping. Microwaving works in a pinch but may make the texture a bit softer.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works beautifully in this casserole and will give you a slightly different but equally delicious taste and texture. Just slice it thinly as you would the yellow squash.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for vegetarians since it features vegetables, cheese, and herbs with no meat or animal byproducts besides dairy.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh sage or basil really makes a difference. If you must use dried, reduce the quantity to about one-third since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives like vegan mozzarella and Parmesan. Make sure to check they melt well to keep the casserole’s creamy texture.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Yes, doubling the ingredients and using a larger baking dish is easy and effective. Just keep an eye on the baking time, which might be a bit longer depending on the size of your dish.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve explored this delicious Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe, I hope you’re as eager as I am to get it into the oven. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that feels like a homemade treasure, full of fresh herbs, bubbly cheese, and the natural goodness of squash. Perfect for any occasion, it’s bound to become one of your favorites too. Happy cooking!
Print
Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting baked herb and cheese squash casserole featuring thinly sliced yellow squash layered with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, infused with fresh sage or basil and garlic, baked to golden perfection for a warm, flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash or golden potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh sage or basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Tomato Sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish to add flavor and prevent sticking.
- Assemble Layers: Arrange the thinly sliced squash upright in the baking dish, alternating with slices of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese. Insert fresh sage or basil leaves between the layers to infuse herbaceous aromas.
- Season and Drizzle: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the layered squash and cheese mixture, then sprinkle the minced garlic along with salt and pepper to taste for seasoning.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Add Cheese Topping: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and return the dish to the oven to bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish the casserole with extra fresh sage or basil leaves for presentation and added flavor. Serve warm as a side dish or light main.
Notes
- You can substitute yellow squash with golden potatoes if preferred for a heartier texture.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese alternatives.
- Make sure to slice the squash thinly and evenly to ensure even cooking.
- If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be used but reduce quantity by half.
- This recipe can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
