If you are craving a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Combining tender slices of yellow squash with melty mozzarella and provolone cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlicky goodness, this casserole bakes to golden perfection. The layers of creamy cheese and aromatic basil or sage create a beautiful harmony that’s both simple to prepare and utterly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a show-stopping side dish, this recipe has all the heart and soul you need.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe starts with a handful of wholesome, vibrant ingredients. Each component is carefully chosen to contribute to the tender texture, bright colors, and rich flavors that make this casserole unforgettable.
- Yellow squash or golden potatoes: Thinly sliced to ensure even cooking and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Tomato sauce: Adds a subtle tang and moist base to keep the casserole juicy and flavorful.
- Mozzarella or provolone cheese: Provides creamy, melty layers that bring a luscious richness to the dish.
- Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a savory, golden crust that makes every bite irresistible.
- Fresh sage or basil leaves: Offer an herbal brightness that lifts and balances the cheese and squash.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky finish and helps the garlic and herbs bloom during baking.
- Garlic: Minced fresh for a punch of aromatic flavor that brightens the entire casserole.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every layer of this dish.
How to Make Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to a warm 375°F (190°C) while you prep the ingredients. This temperature allows the squash to cook gently and the cheeses to melt perfectly without drying out.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce Layer
Start by spreading a thin, even layer of tomato sauce along the bottom of your baking dish. This acts as a flavorful base that prevents sticking and infuses the casserole with a hint of acidity.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Arrange the thin squash slices upright in the baking dish, alternating them with slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese. Between the layers, tuck in fresh sage or basil leaves to infuse bursts of herbal aroma throughout the dish.
Step 4: Season and Drizzle
Drizzle the layered squash generously with olive oil, then sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground pepper over the top. These simple touches boost flavor and create a mouthwatering crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover your dish with foil to lock in moisture, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the squash is tender and just starting to soften. The foil ensures everything steams gently, melding the flavors together.
Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping and Finish Baking
Remove the foil, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the entire casserole, and return it to the oven uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. This step gives you a beautifully melted and slightly golden cheese crust that’s both savory and irresistible.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Once baked to perfection, garnish with a few extra fresh sage or basil leaves. Serve immediately so you can enjoy the melty cheese and tender squash at their best.
How to Serve Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like sage or basil add a lovely pop of color and freshness when sprinkled on top just before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also add a silky sheen that makes this casserole look irresistible.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted chicken, or grilled meats. Its creamy, herb-infused layers serve as a comforting contrast to protein-rich mains and vibrant vegetable sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or layering the squash slices in a spiral pattern before baking to impress guests visually. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for an extra crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight.
Freezing
If you want to save the Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe for later, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing in the freezer, where it can stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm the casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and the cheese on top becomes bubbly again. This helps restore that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash for this casserole?
Absolutely! While yellow squash works beautifully here, zucchini or even delicata squash can be great alternatives, each bringing its own subtle flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian as written. Just use cheese made without animal rennet if you prefer to keep it strictly vegetarian-friendly.
Can I substitute the cheeses used in the recipe?
Feel free to experiment with cheeses like fontina, gouda, or even sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles. Just be mindful of melting properties to maintain the luscious texture.
What if I’m short on time—can I skip the resting period?
This casserole tastes best when allowed to cool slightly before serving, so the layers settle. However, if you’re hungry, just dig in and enjoy the warmth and melty cheese right away!
How do I make the casserole less oily?
Use olive oil sparingly and opt for a light spray or brush instead of drizzling. Also, be sure to drain any excess liquid from the squash to avoid watering down the dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe enough for anyone who loves simple cooking with big flavor. With easily accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dish that feels special without the fuss. Whether you’re feeding family, guests, or simply yourself, give this recipe a try—it’s comfort and elegance baked into every bite.
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: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring thinly sliced yellow squash layered with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh herbs, then baked to perfection with a golden Parmesan topping. It’s a perfect vegetarian side or light main course, blending fresh herbs and cheeses to create a deliciously cheesy and tender casserole.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium yellow squash or golden potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh sage or basil leaves
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Tomato Sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. This will serve as the flavorful base for the layered squash.
- Assemble Layers: Arrange the thinly sliced squash upright in the baking dish, alternating layers with slices of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese. Insert fresh sage or basil leaves between the slices to infuse herbal flavor throughout the casserole.
- Season and Drizzle: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the squash layers and sprinkle minced garlic alongside salt and pepper to taste. These seasonings enhance the savory notes of the dish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil to retain moisture and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is tender and cooked through.
- Add Cheese Topping: Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish the casserole with extra fresh sage or basil leaves. Serve the casserole warm as a delicious side or vegetarian main course.
Notes
- For best results, slice squash thinly and evenly for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute provolone cheese for mozzarella depending on your preference.
- Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch.
- Covering the dish while baking helps to steam the squash and keep it moist.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
