This Easy Oven Fried Squash is a fun and healthy side dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Just slice the squash, coat it, and pop it in the oven!
You won’t believe how yummy this is without the fuss of frying! I usually serve it with dinner, and my family fights over the last piece. Trust me, it disappears quickly! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Choose firm squash for the best texture. If unavailable, zucchini works great too; just slice it the same way.
Breadcrumbs: I love using seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor, but panko is a fantastic substitute if you want an extra crunch. You can also make your own breadcrumbs from stale bread.
Parmesan Cheese: It gives a sharp, delightful flavor. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan substitute for a similar taste.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder add great flavor. Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs like Italian seasoning or paprika for an extra zing!
How Do I Achieve the Crispiest Squash?
To make sure your oven-fried squash comes out crispy, follow these steps:
- Start with dry squash slices! Pat them down with paper towels to remove moisture—this is key for crispiness.
- Use the three-step breading process: flour, egg, then breadcrumbs. This creates layers that help it crisp up in the oven.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Lay the slices out without touching each other so they roast instead of steam.
- Flipping halfway through baking promotes even cooking and browning. If they seem less done at the edges, turn those pieces for optimal crispness.
Following these tips will leave you with perfectly crispy oven-fried squash that everyone will enjoy!
Easy Oven Fried Squash for Crispy Healthy Sides
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Squash:
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
For the Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying your crispy squash in about 35 minutes! Perfect for a quick side dish with dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray the surface with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Grab three shallow dishes or bowls. In the first one, add the flour. In the second, beat the eggs until blended. In the third dish, mix together the seasoned breadcrumbs with half of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Squash:
Take your squash slices and pat them dry with paper towels to soak up any excess moisture. This step is essential for getting that nice crispy texture later!
4. Coat the Squash:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Take each squash slice and dip it into the flour first. Make sure to shake off any excess flour before moving to the next step. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat the squash slice thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly to help it stick.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place your beautifully coated squash slices on the lined baking sheet in a single layer—make sure they don’t touch to ensure they bake evenly. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them brown nicely in the oven.
6. Bake for Crispy Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let the squash bake for about 20-25 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through cooking to get both sides golden brown and crispy.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once the squash is golden and crispy, take it out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious crispy, oven-fried squash as a healthy side dish!
Enjoy your crunchy, oven-fried squash that makes a great alternative to fried sides, with less oil and easy cleanup!
FAQ About Easy Oven Fried Squash
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is delicious, zucchini works perfectly as a substitute. Just slice it the same way for the best results!
How Do I Keep Leftovers Fresh?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain crispiness, pop them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for the coating!
What Can I Serve with Oven Fried Squash?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, salads, or as part of a veggie platter. You can also enjoy it as a healthy snack with your favorite dipping sauce!
