Baked Pepper-Cheese Squash
A savory baked squash dish layered with crispy bacon, sweet onions, and melted jalapeno cheese, perfect for a comforting family meal or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the squash until tender.
- Fry the bacon until crisp and remove from the pan.
- Brown the onion rings in some of the bacon drippings.
- Crumble the bacon.
- Layer half of the cooked squash, bacon, onion rings, and cheese in a 9 x 9-inch shallow baking dish.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining ingredients.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs on top.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon for a lighter option. You can substitute regular cheese with pepper jack for extra heat or use a dairy-free cheese if needed. Make sure to slice the squash evenly for consistent cooking. If jalapeno cheese is unavailable, any sharp cheddar can work well. This dish pairs beautifully with Broccoli With Bacon Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked pepper-cheese squash as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It also complements a fresh salad or can be enjoyed as a main dish with a side of rice or quinoa. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Potatoes And Ham for a satisfying combination.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook, as this can make the squash mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Pepper-Cheese Squash contains roughly 124 calories, with 5g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until warmed through at 350°F.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).