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You can cook patty pan squash in so many delicious ways, from roasting and grilling to stuffing and sautéing.
Patty pan squash is that cute, flying-saucer-shaped summer squash that shows up at farmers markets and in gardens everywhere this time of year.
If you’ve ever stared at one wondering what to cook with patty pan squash, you’re definitely not alone.
Their unique shape can be a little intimidating, but they’re actually one of the most versatile vegetables you can keep in your kitchen.
In this post, we’ll walk through some of the best ways to cook patty pan squash, along with tips for prepping them and a few simple recipes you can try tonight.
Let’s get cooking.
What to Cook With Patty Pan Squash: The Best Ways
When you’re deciding what to cook with patty pan squash, the good news is that you have plenty of options.
These little squash are mild, buttery, and slightly sweet, which means they play well with almost any cooking method.
Here are the best ways to cook patty pan squash so you can enjoy them at their peak.
1. Roast Them for a Caramelized Bite
Roasting is probably the easiest and most rewarding way to cook patty pan squash.
Just cut them into halves or wedges, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet.
Roast at 425°F for about 20 to 25 minutes until the edges are golden and tender.
The natural sugars caramelize in the oven, giving you a sweet, nutty flavor that’s hard to beat.
2. Grill Them for a Smoky Char
Grilling patty pan squash gives you those lovely char marks and a smoky taste that pairs beautifully with summer meals.
Slice them into thick rounds or halve them, brush with oil, and grill over medium-high heat for about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
A little sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon at the end takes them to the next level.
3. Stuff Them for a Showstopper Dish
Because of their cute little bowl shape, patty pan squash are perfect for stuffing.
Hollow them out with a spoon, then fill with a mixture of rice, ground meat, cheese, or even quinoa and veggies.
Bake at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes until the squash is tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.
This is a great way to cook patty pan squash when you want something that looks impressive but is still simple to make.
4. Sauté Them for a Quick Weeknight Side
If you’re short on time, sautéing is a fantastic way to cook patty pan squash.
Slice them thin, heat some butter or olive oil in a pan, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re tender.
Add garlic, herbs, or a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor.
It’s a fast, no-fuss side dish that goes with just about anything.
How to Prep Patty Pan Squash Before Cooking
Before you cook patty pan squash, a little prep goes a long way.
Here’s what you need to know.
1. Wash and Trim
Give your squash a good rinse under cool water to remove any dirt or grit.
Then trim off both ends with a sharp knife.
If the skin is tender, you don’t need to peel it. In fact, the skin holds a lot of nutrients and flavor.
2. Decide Whether to Seed
Smaller patty pan squash usually have soft, edible seeds that you can leave right in.
Larger ones, though, may have tougher seeds and spongy centers that are better scooped out.
If you’re stuffing them, you’ll be hollowing them out anyway, so this step takes care of itself.
3. Cut Them Evenly
For even cooking, try to cut your patty pan squash into pieces of similar size.
Whether you’re halving, slicing, or dicing, consistency is key so some pieces don’t turn to mush while others stay firm.
This is one of the most important tips when you cook patty pan squash.
Tasty Flavor Pairings for Patty Pan Squash
Part of the fun of figuring out what to cook with patty pan squash is experimenting with flavors.
Because they’re mild, they soak up whatever you pair them with.
Here are some winning combinations.
1. Garlic, Butter, and Fresh Herbs
Classic and always delicious.
Sauté or roast your squash with minced garlic, a pat of butter, and herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley.
The richness of the butter brings out the natural sweetness of the squash.
2. Parmesan and Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle grated Parmesan and toasted breadcrumbs over roasted patty pan squash for a crunchy, savory topping.
It’s like a healthier version of your favorite baked veggie casserole.
3. Lemon and Feta
For a fresh, Mediterranean twist, toss grilled or roasted patty pan squash with lemon juice, crumbled feta, and a drizzle of olive oil.
The tangy feta and bright lemon balance the squash’s mild flavor beautifully.
4. Bacon and Onion
If you want something heartier, cook patty pan squash with crispy bacon and caramelized onions.
The smoky, savory flavors make this a comfort-food favorite that even picky eaters will enjoy.
So, What to Cook With Patty Pan Squash?
You can cook patty pan squash in so many delicious ways, from roasting and grilling to stuffing and sautéing.
Their mild, buttery flavor and adorable shape make them one of the most fun and flexible summer vegetables you can work with.
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight side or an impressive stuffed dinner, there’s a patty pan squash recipe out there for you.
So next time you spot these little flying saucers at the market, don’t hesitate to grab a few.
Now you know exactly what to cook with patty pan squash, and your kitchen will be better for it.