Pizza Squash
A flavorful baked squash dish topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and herbs, perfect for a cozy vegetarian meal or side dish with rich, cheesy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Add tomato sauce to the onion and heat to boil for 1 minute.
- Pour the sauce over the halved yellow squash.
- Shake dried oregano over the top of the sauce and squash.
- Top with a generous layer of grated mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30-45 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the yellow squash briefly before baking. You can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or a dairy-free option if needed. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the dish. If you have leftover tomato sauce, it can be incorporated into other American recipes, such as pasta dishes or casseroles.
Serving Suggestions
This Pizza Squash is delicious served as a main dish or as a side. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with 'Best Ever' Coconut Fruit Cake for dessert, creating a satisfying balance of flavors. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top before serving for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but oven reheating will maintain the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Squash contains roughly 759 calories, with 24g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (238% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 580mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
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 use other types of squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute yellow squash with zucchini or acorn squash. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type and size of the squash you're using, as some varieties may take longer to become tender.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Pizza Squash recipe is entirely vegetarian. The use of mozzarella cheese and vegetables makes it a great option for those following vegetarian recipes, and it can easily be made vegan by using plant-based cheese.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling it and storing it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and bake as directed, allowing for a few extra minutes if it's cold from the refrigerator.
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).