As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, there’s nothing quite like enjoying the bounty of the season. I found myself at the farmer’s market, drawn to the vibrant golden pattypan squash that looked like tiny, cheerful UFOs just waiting to be stuffed with goodness. Before I knew it, I was home, envisioning a creamy, cheesy filling tucked inside these tender treasures.
This stuffed pattypan squash recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen—perfect for casual gatherings or as a delightful appetizer when friends drop by unannounced. With a bubbling mozzarella topping that melts to perfection, each bite promises a satisfying burst of flavor that’s both comforting and light. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize the fillings to suit your taste. If you’re ready to shake up your summer cooking and highlight those wonderful squash, let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that’s sure to impress!
Why will you love Stuffed Pattypan Squash?
Simple to Prepare: The stuffing process is straightforward, making it a breeze for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Flavorful Filling: The chive and onion cream cheese creates a delightful burst of flavor, complemented by the gooey mozzarella on top.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite fillings or cheeses to suit your palate or use what’s available in your kitchen.
Perfect for Entertaining: These colorful, bite-sized appetizers are sure to impress guests at any gathering, making them a fantastic addition to your entertaining menu.
Light and Satisfying: Enjoy a lighter appetizer that feels indulgent but is packed with fresh ingredients. If you want to explore more ideas, check out my tips for customizing your appetizers.
Stuffed Pattypan Squash Ingredients
For the Squash
• Pattypan Squash – The main attraction, these golden beauties provide the perfect base for delicious fillings.
• Olive Oil – A light brush enhances the squash’s natural flavor while helping it roast to perfection.
• Salt – A touch to elevate and balance all the flavors of the dish.
• Pepper – Adds warmth, making every bite just a hint spicy.
For the Filling
• Chive and Onion Cream Cheese – This creamy mixture serves as the flavorful filling; try Boursin for a gourmet twist.
• Grated Mozzarella – Melts to form a gorgeous, bubbly topping that makes these stuffed pattypan squash irresistible.
Enjoy crafting these delightful appetizers where every ingredient shines, especially the versatile stuffed pattypan squash!
How to Make Stuffed Pattypan Squash
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (392°F) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting the squash beautifully.
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Prepare Squash: Gently wash the pattypan squash, cut off the tops and ends, slice them in half, and scoop out the insides, leaving a thin wall for the filling.
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Season Squash: Brush each half with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors during roasting.
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Make Filling: In a bowl, mix chive and onion cream cheese with any additional garlic powder, ensuring it becomes a creamy and flavorful blend.
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Stuff Squash: Generously fill each squash half with the cream cheese mixture, pressing it down slightly for a well-packed filling. Top with grated mozzarella.
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Bake: Place the stuffed squash on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 13-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
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Serve: Allow them to cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature for a delightful appetizer!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Stuffed Pattypan Squash Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists and swaps that will enhance your stuffed pattypan squash experience.
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Cheese Swap: Replace cream cheese with feta for a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the squash.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or thyme to the filling for a fragrant lift, making each bite burst with herby goodness.
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Zesty Kick: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes with the cream cheese for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
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Nut Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch and rich, nutty flavor, adding another texture.
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Vegetable Boost: Mix in finely diced bell peppers or spinach into the cream cheese filling for extra nutrition and color.
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Pesto Punch: Drizzle a spoonful of pesto on top before baking for an aromatic Italian twist that elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Buffalo Style: Stir in some buffalo sauce into the cream cheese for a fiery version that is perfect for heat lovers.
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Sweet Surprise: Try a light sprinkle of brown sugar or honey on top before baking for a subtly sweet finish that contrasts the savory taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Stuffed Pattypan Squash are the perfect solution for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare and stuff the squash up to 2 days in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Simply follow the initial steps of washing and cutting the squash, scooping out the flesh, and filling them with the cream cheese mixture. To ensure they remain just as delicious, lightly cover the stuffed squash with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and pop them in for 13-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling. This way, you’ll have a delightful appetizer or side dish ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Pattypan Squash
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping your stuffed pattypan squash fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked squash by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Serving Cold: Stuffed pattypan squash can also be enjoyed cold, making them perfect for summer picnics or potlucks!
Tips for the Best Stuffed Pattypan Squash
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Choose Wisely: Select firm, golden pattypan squash without blemishes for a fresh, vibrant flavor that’s crucial for your stuffed pattypan squash.
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Don’t Overpack: When filling the squash, don’t cram the cream cheese mixture too tightly; allow for expansion as it bakes.
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Even Roasting: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time for even heating, ensuring all sides of your stuffed pattypan squash are deliciously golden.
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Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses such as goat, feta, or cheddar to switch up the flavor profile of your stuffed pattypan squash, adding a personal touch.
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Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate your dish visually and flavor-wise without much effort!
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Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens vary; remove the squash once the cheese is golden and bubbling to avoid overcooking.
What to Serve with Stuffed Pattypan Squash?
As you savor the rich, cheesy filling of these delightful treats, consider pairing them with complementary dishes that enhance their fresh flavors.
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Crispy Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens adds a light crunch, balancing the creaminess of the squash.
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Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa, tossed with fresh herbs, creates a hearty yet healthy side that pairs perfectly with the savory squash.
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Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crunchy on the outside and tender within, these potatoes meld beautifully with the stuffed squash’s flavors.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the summer vibe, providing a pop of sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory filling.
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Tomato Basil Bruschetta: Bright, tangy flavors from this appetizer amplify the richness of the stuffed squash and carry your taste buds into summer.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy slaw brings a delightful texture and freshness that complements the richness of the squash.
For drinks, consider serving Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water with Citrus Slices to keep your meal light and refreshing. A scoop of Lemon Sorbet can serve as a light dessert, cleansing the palate after your tasty feast. Enjoy these pairings for an elevated meal experience!
Stuffed Pattypan Squash Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pattypan squash?
Absolutely! When selecting pattypan squash, choose those that are firm and vibrant golden-yellow in color. Avoid any that have dark spots or blemishes, as this can indicate overripeness. The smaller ones tend to be more tender and flavorful, so keep an eye out for those!
How should I store leftover stuffed pattypan squash?
To keep your stuffed pattypan squash fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
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Can I freeze stuffed pattypan squash?
Yes! To freeze your yummy stuffed pattypan squash, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. These can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
What’s the best way to reheat stuffed pattypan squash?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and arrange the squash on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbling again. This will help restore that delightful crispy texture.
What if my filling is too thick or too thin?
Very! If your filling is too thick, simply add a little more cream cheese or a splash of milk to achieve a creamier consistency. If it’s too thin, you can add a touch of breadcrumbs to help it bind and make it more substantial. Remember, it should hold its shape but still be spreadable for stuffing!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! For those with dairy allergies, you can swap out the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use a non-dairy cheese for the topping. Always check the labels for gluten content if you’re using packaged products. And if you’re serving pets, remember to keep any leftover squash away from dogs as certain ingredients may not be suitable for them.
Mouthwatering Stuffed Pattypan Squash for Easy Entertaining
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Wash the pattypan squash, cut off the tops and ends, slice them in half, and scoop out the insides.
- Brush each half with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Mix chive and onion cream cheese in a bowl until creamy and flavorful.
- Fill each squash half with the cream cheese mixture and top with grated mozzarella.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 13-15 minutes until golden.
- Cool for a minute before serving and enjoy warm or at room temperature.