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
Scale
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.
