Cheesy Baked Yellow Squash with Caramelized Onions
This delightful Cheesy Baked Yellow Squash with Caramelized Onions is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The sweet and savory notes of the caramelized onions complement the tender, baked yellow squash beautifully. Topped with gooey melted cheddar, this dish transforms simple ingredients into an elegant side that can elevate any meal, whether it's a casual family dinner or a fancy dinner party. Perfect for those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their vegetable dishes.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Yellow Squash
1 (cut in half)
Margarine or Butter
1 teaspoon (softened)
Small Onion or Large Scallion
1 (sliced)
Garlic Powder
1/4 teaspoon (n/a)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
4 ounces (n/a)
Salt
to taste (n/a)
Pepper
to taste (n/a)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Begin by carefully scoring the yellow squash halves with a knife, making deep cuts but not slicing all the way through.
3
Using a butter knife, evenly spread the margarine or butter into the scored sections of the squash.
4
Layer the sliced onions over the top of the squash, allowing them to nestle into the scored cuts.
5
Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the onions and squash halves.
6
Place the prepared squash on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Check for tenderness after 15 minutes, adjusting the time as needed based on your oven.
7
After the initial baking time, carefully remove the squash from the oven. Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each squash half.
8
Return the squash to the oven and continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the squash is cooked to your preferred tenderness.
9
Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main ingredient in Cheesy Baked Yellow Squash with Caramelized Onions?
The main ingredient is a yellow squash, cut in half and scored.
What is the recommended oven temperature for this recipe?
You should preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How do I prepare the yellow squash before baking?
Cut the squash in half and score the halves with a knife, making deep cuts without slicing all the way through.
What type of fat is used for the squash?
You can use either margarine or butter, ideally softened for easier spreading.
How are the onions prepared for this dish?
One small onion or large scallion should be sliced and layered over the top of the squash.
What seasonings are required for this squash recipe?
The recipe calls for garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
How long is the initial baking time before adding cheese?
The squash should bake for approximately 25 minutes, checking for tenderness after 15 minutes.
What type of cheese is used for the topping?
The recipe uses 4 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese.
When should the cheddar cheese be added?
Add the cheese after the initial 25-minute bake, then return the squash to the oven.
How long do you bake the squash after adding the cheese?
Bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 2 servings.
Is this cheesy baked squash recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is gluten-free.
Can I use scallions instead of a regular onion?
Yes, the recipe specifies using either a small onion or a large scallion.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 total ingredients: yellow squash, margarine/butter, onion, garlic powder, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
What is the best way to spread the butter into the squash?
Using a butter knife, evenly spread the softened margarine or butter into the scored sections of the squash.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish features tender baked squash, savory onions, and gooey melted cheese.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper amounts?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding salt and pepper to taste.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Should the squash be cooled before serving?
Yes, it is recommended to let the squash cool slightly after removing it from the oven before serving.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food due to its cheesy and savory profile.
Can I use garlic cloves instead of garlic powder?
While the recipe specifies 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, you could substitute fresh garlic if preferred.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This is a vegetable side dish, perfect for family dinners or parties.
How much garlic powder is needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
What should I do if the squash is not tender after 25 minutes?
You can adjust the baking time as needed based on your specific oven.
Do I need to peel the yellow squash?
No, the recipe instructions specify cutting the squash in half and scoring it without mention of peeling.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
The recipe calls for shredded cheddar, but you could substitute other melting cheeses if desired.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish contains only vegetables, dairy, and seasonings.
How do I ensure the onions nestle into the squash?
Layer the sliced onions over the top and allow them to settle into the scored cuts of the squash.
What equipment is needed to bake the squash?
You will need a knife for scoring, a butter knife for spreading, and a baking sheet.
Is this a sophisticated side dish?
Yes, the recipe description mentions it transforms simple ingredients into an elegant side dish.