Description
A delicious baked herb and cheese squash casserole featuring layers of thinly sliced yellow squash, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, infused with fresh sage or basil for a fragrant, comforting dish perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium yellow squash or golden potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh sage or basil leaves
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare the baking dish: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Layer the squash and cheese: Arrange the thinly sliced squash upright in the dish, alternating with slices of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese. Place fresh sage or basil leaves between the slices to infuse herbal aroma.
- Add seasoning and oil: Drizzle olive oil over the layered squash, and sprinkle minced garlic along with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the squash softens and becomes tender.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with extra fresh sage or basil leaves for a fresh herbal touch, and serve the casserole warm.
Notes
- If using golden potatoes instead of squash, make sure to slice very thinly for even cooking.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried herbs; however, fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor.
- For a richer casserole, consider adding a splash of cream or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the layers.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture retention.
