Skillet Squash Au Gratin
A warm and cheesy skillet dish showcasing tender summer squash and tomatoes, topped with melted American cheese. Perfect as a comforting side or light main, its savory flavors and creamy texture appeal to vegetable lovers and those seeking a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet.
- Add the sliced summer squash, onion, salt, pepper, and sliced tomatoes to the skillet.
- Cook, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes or until the squash is tender.
- Sprinkle grated American cheese over the top and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or milk along with the vegetables. You can substitute zucchini for summer squash if desired. If American cheese isn't available, try using cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Adding herbs like thyme or basil can enhance the dish further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Skillet Squash Au Gratin as a side dish to grilled meats or alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Paul'S Potato Salad for a complete summer feast. Consider adding crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, checking to avoid overheating, which can make the cheese tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Squash Au Gratin contains roughly 541 calories, with 6g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2245mg per serving (98% 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 frozen squash for this recipe?
While fresh summer squash yields the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen squash. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet to avoid a watery dish.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also enhance the flavors with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
What can I add to make this dish heartier?
To make Skillet Squash Au Gratin more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa or rice into the skillet along with the vegetables. You can also incorporate cooked ground meat or beans for added protein and texture.
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).