Recipe Card
Hook – Quick Description:
Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned baked yellow squash rounds — a WW-friendly side dish or snack that satisfies cravings without the guilt.
Servings & Timing:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Dietary Badges:
🌾 Gluten-Free
🥗 Vegetarian
🍴 Weight Watchers–Friendly (low points, portion-controlled)
Ingredients (Checklist Style):
Medium yellow squash
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or red pepper flakes (optional garnish)
Instructions (Concise & Numbered):
Wash and slice squash into ¼-inch thick rounds.
Toss slices with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Arrange rounds on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over each slice.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Garnish with parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve hot as a side or snack.
Additional Notes:
Thinner slices = crispier rounds, thicker slices = softer centers.
Try mixing in part-skim cheeses to reduce WW points.
Delicious on their own, but also great with marinara for dipping.
Brief Introduction
These WW Cheesy Baked Yellow Squash Rounds are an easy way to turn simple summer squash into a crave-worthy snack or side dish. They deliver crispy edges, melty cheese, and big flavor with minimal ingredients. Portion-friendly and WW-approved, they’re a fun alternative to chips, fries, or heavier sides.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Prepping the Squash
Wash squash and slice into even ¼-inch thick rounds.
Pat slices dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess.
Seasoning the Rounds
In a large bowl, toss squash with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Make sure slices are coated evenly for maximum flavor.
Baking with Cheese
Arrange slices in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over each round.
Bake at 400°F until cheese melts and edges are golden brown (20–25 minutes).
Tip: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end if you like extra crispy cheese.
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Zucchini works equally well — or mix both for a colorful tray.
Cheese: Use part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat Parmesan for lighter WW points.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning is classic, but Cajun spice or smoked paprika add variety.
Oil: Olive oil adds richness, but cooking spray can cut calories further.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
Marinara Dip: Serve with warm marinara or pizza sauce.
Tex-Mex Twist: Swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning; top with cheddar.
Herb Upgrade: Add fresh basil, oregano, or thyme after baking.
Serving Ideas:
As a side with grilled chicken or fish.
As a party snack platter with dipping sauces.
As a low-carb appetizer before pasta night.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Storage: Best eaten fresh, but leftovers keep in fridge up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm in oven or air fryer at 350°F until crisp again.
Freezing: Not recommended — squash releases too much water after thawing.
Make-Ahead: Prep squash slices and season ahead of time; bake just before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated, per 1 of 4 servings)
Calories: ~120 kcal
Protein: 7g
Carbs: 6g
Fat: 8g
WW Points: ~2–3 points per serving (depends on cheese choice & plan)
🌱 Vegetarian | 🌾 Gluten-Free | 🧀 WW-Friendly
FAQs
Q: Can I make this in the air fryer?
A: Yes — air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and edges are crispy.
Q: Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
A: Absolutely! The recipe works perfectly with zucchini.
Q: How do I keep squash from getting soggy?
A: Pat slices dry before seasoning and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
Q: What’s the best cheese for this?
A: Mozzarella melts beautifully, Parmesan adds sharpness — use both for balance.
Personal Story (Optional)
This recipe was born during summer, when yellow squash was overflowing from my garden. Instead of the usual sautéed version, I tried baking slices with cheese — and instantly found my new favorite snack. It’s crunchy, cheesy, and satisfying, yet fits right into my WW plan.
- Country Apple Fritter Bread - September 9, 2025
- Buster Bar Ice Cream Treat - September 9, 2025
- Delicious Pecan Pie Crescents - September 9, 2025