If you’re craving a homey, flavorful dish that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious, this Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender, thinly sliced yellow squash or potatoes layered beautifully with creamy mozzarella, fragrant fresh herbs, and that irresistible golden Parmesan crust. It’s a cozy, comforting dish that turns simple ingredients into something special, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. You’ll love how the herbs and cheese marry to create layers of flavor that make every bite a delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things straightforward with a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each element plays a vital role: from the succulent squash that provides the tender base, to the rich cheeses adding gooey goodness, and the herbs bringing a burst of aromatic freshness.
- 2 medium yellow squash or golden potatoes: Thinly slicing these helps them cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Adds a bright, tangy base that keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese: Melts beautifully, giving the casserole a creamy, cheesy heart.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top, it forms a savory, golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
- Fresh sage or basil leaves: These herbs provide an uplifting, fragrant twist to each layer of the dish.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Drizzled to add richness and help meld all the flavors together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a subtle punch of warmth and depth without overwhelming the delicate squash.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors in the casserole.
How to Make Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures everything cooks evenly from the moment the casserole hits the oven, which is key for tender squash and perfectly melted cheese.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce Base
Spread a thin, even layer of tomato sauce across the bottom of your baking dish. This tangy foundation not only keeps the casserole moist but also infuses every slice of squash with delicious flavor as it bakes.
Step 3: Layer the Squash and Cheese
Now comes the fun and satisfying part: standing the thin squash slices upright in the dish, nestled closely together. Alternate these layers with slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese, slipping fresh sage or basil leaves between them. This layering creates delightful pockets of cheesy goodness and herbal fragrance with every bite.
Step 4: Season and Drizzle
Drizzle olive oil over the layered squash for richness, then sprinkle minced garlic evenly on top along with salt and pepper. These additions bring warmth and a touch of savory depth that elevate the entire dish.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover your casserole with foil to trap the moisture and bake in the oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. This step softens the squash and starts melding all those wonderful flavors.
Step 6: Add Parmesan and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes so the cheese melts and browns beautifully, creating that signature golden crust that’s essential to the Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve Warm
Finish off by garnishing with extra fresh sage or basil leaves to add a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve this cozy, cheesy masterpiece warm and enjoy the comforting blend of textures and aromas.
How to Serve Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few fresh herb leaves on top just before serving to brighten the dish visually and add a subtle herbal aroma. A light drizzle of good olive oil or a few cracked black peppercorns can also elevate the presentation.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness. For heartier meals, serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted meats, or a simple grain like quinoa for a complete, satisfying plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming touch or as a lovely centerpiece on the table. You can also experiment by swapping in different cheeses or herbs to tailor it to your taste buds, making this Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe uniquely yours each time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The melty cheese and tender squash hold up well, making for easy next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers either in a microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. To revive some of the crispiness on top, a quick broil for a minute or two works wonders. Just be sure to watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional here, zucchini or even thinly sliced eggplant can work well, offering a slightly different texture but equally delicious flavors.
Is this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe is fully vegetarian-friendly, relying on herbs and cheese for deep flavor without any meat or animal-based broths.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely! The recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no wheat-based ingredients. Just double-check any pre-prepared tomato sauces or cheeses for hidden gluten if you’re sensitive.
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella and provolone melt beautifully and offer mild flavors, while Parmesan adds that punchy, nutty crust on top. Feel free to mix or swap cheeses based on your preference!
How can I add more flavor?
Adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can boost the flavor. Roasted garlic instead of raw will mellow the garlic taste for a subtler background note.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe is a little piece of comfort and joy you can easily have on your dinner table anytime. It’s warm, cheesy, and bursting with fresh herbal flavors that make it both simple and special. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming a beloved family favorite!
Print
Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Herb and Cheese Squash Casserole is a delightful, comforting dish featuring layers of tender yellow squash and melted cheeses, enhanced with the fresh flavors of sage or basil. Perfect as a savory side or light main, it combines creamy mozzarella and Parmesan with aromatic herbs for a wholesome, baked casserole that’s both easy and elegant.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 medium yellow squash or golden potatoes, thinly sliced
- Fresh sage or basil leaves, as needed
Sauces & Oils
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread a thin, even layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking and infuse flavor into the squash layers.
- Layer the Squash and Cheese: Arrange the thin squash slices upright in the dish, alternating with slices or layers of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese. Between the layers, tuck fresh sage or basil leaves to add aromatic depth to the casserole.
- Add Olive Oil and Seasonings: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the layered squash to ensure moisture and richness. Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper on top to season the dish thoroughly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil to trap steam and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the squash becomes tender and cooks through.
- Add Parmesan and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the surface, then return the dish to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This step melts the Parmesan into a golden, bubbly topping.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with extra fresh sage or basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. Serve the casserole warm for best flavor and enjoyment.
Notes
- You can substitute golden potatoes for the yellow squash if desired, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried basil or sage can be used in a pinch (use about 1 tsp dried).
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the tomato sauce and cheeses do not contain animal rennet or additives.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to preserve texture.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a mild kick if you prefer spice.
