Cooking with squash is one of my favorite ways to bring fresh and flavorful veggies to the table. Whether you’re cooking yellow squash for a quick weeknight meal or looking for stuffed squash ideas to impress your guests, there are so many ways to enjoy this versatile summer squash.
From easy squash recipes yellow to hearty dinners with squash, the possibilities are endless. If you’re searching for recipes that use squash, especially yellow neck squash, you’re in for a treat.
Check out more squash recipes:
- 15 Best Spaghetti Squash Recipes
- 15 Tasty Butternut Squash Recipes
- How to Cook Hubbard Squash: 15 Best Recipes
- 15 Delicious Acorn Squash Recipes
- 15 Kabocha Squash Recipes
- 16 Buttercup Squash Recipes
- 15 Delicata Squash Recipes
Let’s dive into some delicious yellow squash recipes that’ll have you falling in love with this sunny veggie!
1. Yellow Squash Casserole
This casserole is comfort food at its best. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-good, it’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Even picky eaters won’t say no to this dish! Plus, it’s a great way to use up a bumper crop of yellow squash. Trust me, you’re gonna love it.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, boil the squash and onions until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well.
- Mix the squash, onion, cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper in a big bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
2. Grilled Yellow Squash
This is such an easy and tasty way to enjoy squash! It’s perfect for summer BBQs or a quick side dish. The smoky flavor from the grill really takes it to the next level. Plus, it’s healthy without even trying!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced lengthwise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush both sides of the squash slices with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the squash on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
3. Yellow Squash Fritters
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—these fritters are a total hit. They’re perfect as a snack or appetizer. Plus, they’re a sneaky way to get kids to eat their veggies.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated yellow squash
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Place the grated squash in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as you can.
- In a bowl, mix the squash, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, baking powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet, flattening them slightly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
4. Creamy Yellow Squash Soup
This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, comforting, and surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a light but satisfying meal. You’ll be slurping this up in no time.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 cups yellow squash, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add the chopped squash and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the squash is tender.
- Use an immersion blender (or regular blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and heat for another 2 minutes.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like.
5. Yellow Squash Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is quick, colorful, and full of flavor. It’s a great side dish for busy weeknights or a light meal on its own. Plus, you can toss in extra veggies if you’re feeling adventurous.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 cups yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (use low-sodium if you like)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Toss in the squash, bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes, or until the veggies are tender but still crisp.
- Drizzle with soy sauce and sprinkle red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir for another minute and serve hot.
6. Baked Parmesan Yellow Squash
Baked squash with Parmesan is simple but sooo delicious. It’s crispy on the edges, tender in the middle, and loaded with cheesy goodness. Even squash skeptics will gobble this up!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the squash slices in olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this over the squash slices.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve warm and enjoy the crispy-cheesy goodness.
7. Yellow Squash and Chickpea Curry
If you love bold flavors, this curry is for you. It’s rich, hearty, and surprisingly easy to whip up. Serve it with rice or naan, and you’ve got yourself a comforting meal that’s hard to resist.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups yellow squash, diced
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the curry powder and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add the diced squash, chickpeas, and coconut milk. Stir well.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and serve hot over rice or with warm naan bread.
8. Yellow Squash Zucchini Noodles
If you’re looking for a light, low-carb meal, these squash “noodles” are the way to go! They’re fresh, quick to make, and pair perfectly with any sauce. I love tossing them with garlic and olive oil for a simple, satisfying dish.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 yellow squash
- 2 zucchini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions:
- Use a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to turn the squash and zucchini into noodles.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Toss in the “noodles” and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring gently. You want them tender but not mushy!
- Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan if desired and serve immediately.
9. Stuffed Yellow Squash Boats
These stuffed squash boats are as fun to make as they are to eat. Loaded with veggies, rice, and spices, they’re hearty and satisfying. They also look fancy enough to impress guests!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 medium yellow squash
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice each squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to make a “boat.”
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add diced tomatoes, rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
- Spoon the filling into the squash boats and place them on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
10. Yellow Squash Pancakes
These squash pancakes are like little veggie-packed savory treats. They’re great for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated yellow squash
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Squeeze out the excess liquid from the grated squash using a clean towel.
- In a bowl, mix the squash, flour, egg, green onions, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the skillet and flatten slightly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
11. Roasted Yellow Squash and Garlic
This simple roasted squash dish is bursting with flavor. The garlic gets all caramelized and sweet while the squash turns perfectly tender. It’s an easy side dish that goes with just about everything.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 yellow squash, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the squash and garlic with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.
- Serve hot and enjoy the roasted goodness.
12. Yellow Squash and Lentil Stew
Hearty and wholesome, this lentil stew with yellow squash is pure comfort food. It’s warm, filling, and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a cozy dinner, especially when served with crusty bread.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups yellow squash, diced
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion and carrots until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cumin and turmeric and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the lentils, squash, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite bread.
13. Yellow Squash Salad with Lemon Dressing
This salad is light, fresh, and bursting with citrusy goodness. The raw yellow squash adds a nice crunch, making it a perfect side dish for summer meals. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to throw together!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 yellow squash, thinly sliced (use a mandoline if you have one)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the squash slices on a serving plate.
- Drizzle the lemon dressing over the squash.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing crunch!
14. Yellow Squash Rice Pilaf
This rice pilaf is a cozy side dish that’s full of flavor and texture. The squash adds a subtle sweetness, while the herbs bring it all together. It’s a great way to jazz up plain rice for family dinners.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup yellow squash, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add the diced squash and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the rice and thyme, coating it in the oil.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.
15. Yellow Squash and Egg Scramble
Quick, easy, and loaded with protein, this scramble is perfect for busy mornings. The squash adds a nice twist to your usual eggs, making it feel a little extra special. My kids love it with a slice of toast on the side!
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow squash, diced
- 4 eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tbsp butter or oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: shredded cheese or chopped herbs for topping
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced squash and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
- Pour the egg mixture over the squash and let it cook undisturbed for 30 seconds.
- Gently stir the eggs and squash together until the eggs are fully cooked but still soft.
- Top with cheese or herbs if you like, and serve immediately.
Cooking with squash, especially yellow squash, is such a fun and tasty way to add variety to your meals. Whether you’re whipping up dinners with squash for your family, exploring easy squash recipes yellow, or experimenting with stuffed squash, there’s something here for everyone.
Summer squash is so versatile, making it perfect for simple sides, hearty mains, or creative dishes. From yellow neck squash recipes to all the wonderful things to make with squash, there are endless ways to cook yellow squash that are sure to please.
I hope these yellow squash recipes inspire you to try something new in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Charles Hummell says
I can’t use up my squash’s before it goes bad. I need ways to prepare it.
Evey says
Why does yellow squash get bitter at times and can I tell when I buy or pick it?