What Can You Do With Patty Pan Squash

You can do a lot with patty pan squash, and once you discover how versatile this fun little vegetable is, you’ll want to keep it stocked in your kitchen all summer long.
 
Patty pan squash, sometimes called scallop squash, is that cute, flying-saucer-shaped summer squash with scalloped edges that looks almost too pretty to eat.
 
But here’s the thing: you absolutely should eat it, because patty pan squash can be roasted, grilled, stuffed, sautéed, pickled, and even baked into casseroles.
 
If you’ve been staring at a basket of patty pan squash from your garden or farmers market wondering what on earth to make, you’re in the right place.
 
In this post, we’ll cover the best ways to cook patty pan squash, how to prep it, and a few creative ideas that go way beyond a basic sauté.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

What Can You Do With Patty Pan Squash?

You can do just about anything with patty pan squash that you’d do with zucchini or yellow squash, but its unique shape opens up a few extra possibilities.
 
Here are the best ways to put this summer squash to work in your kitchen.
 

1. Roast It for a Caramelized, Nutty Flavor

Roasting is probably the easiest and most rewarding thing you can do with patty pan squash.
 
Slice the squash into wedges or rounds, toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder, then roast at 425°F for about 20 to 25 minutes.
 
The edges get golden and caramelized while the inside stays tender and slightly sweet.
 
You can also roast patty pan squash whole if they’re small, which makes for a stunning side dish.
 

2. Stuff Them Like Little Edible Bowls

This is where patty pan squash really shines.
 
Their natural bowl shape makes them perfect for stuffing.
 
Hollow out the center, chop up the scooped flesh, and mix it with rice, ground meat, quinoa, cheese, or breadcrumbs.
 
Then bake the stuffed patty pan squash until everything is hot and bubbly.
 
It’s an impressive dish that looks like you spent hours on it, even though it’s surprisingly simple.
 

3. Grill Them for a Smoky Summer Side

Grilling patty pan squash brings out a smoky char that pairs beautifully with grilled meats and veggies.
 
Cut them into thick slices or halves, brush with oil, and grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side.
 
You can also skewer smaller patty pan squash whole and grill them like kebabs.
 
A squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs afterward takes them to the next level.
 

4. Sauté or Stir-Fry for a Quick Weeknight Meal

If you’re short on time, sautéing patty pan squash is the way to go.
 
Slice them thin, heat some oil in a pan, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes with garlic, onions, or your favorite seasonings.
 
You can toss patty pan squash into stir-fries, pasta dishes, or grain bowls for an easy nutrition boost.
 
They cook fast, so keep an eye on them so they don’t turn to mush.
 

5. Pickle Them for a Tangy Snack

Pickling is an underrated way to use patty pan squash, especially if you have a bumper crop.
 
Slice them thin, pack them into jars with dill, garlic, and peppercorns, then cover with a hot vinegar brine.
 
The result is a crunchy, tangy pickle that’s great on sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or eaten straight from the jar.
 
Small patty pan squash can even be pickled whole, which looks gorgeous on a platter.
 

How to Prep Patty Pan Squash Before Cooking

Prepping patty pan squash is quick and easy, but a few small steps make a big difference.
 

1. Wash and Dry Thoroughly

Give your patty pan squash a good rinse under cool water to remove any dirt or grit.
 
Pat them dry with a clean towel so they roast or sauté properly instead of steaming.
 

2. Decide Whether to Peel

You typically don’t need to peel patty pan squash, especially when they’re young and tender.
 
The skin is thin and totally edible, and it holds the squash together during cooking.
 
If the squash is larger and the skin feels tough, you can peel it, but it’s usually not necessary.
 

3. Trim the Ends and Cut as Needed

Slice off the stem and blossom ends, then cut the patty pan squash however your recipe calls for it.
 
Wedges, rounds, cubes, or halves all work depending on what you’re making.
 
For stuffed patty pan squash, just slice off the top and scoop out the inside.
 

Creative Patty Pan Squash Recipe Ideas

Beyond the basics, there are plenty of fun ways to enjoy patty pan squash.
 
Try adding grated patty pan squash to fritters, muffins, or quick breads for extra moisture.
 
You can also layer sliced patty pan squash into lasagna or casseroles in place of noodles.
 
For a fresh twist, shave raw patty pan squash into ribbons and toss them into salads with lemon vinaigrette.
 
And if you’re feeling adventurous, stuff mini patty pan squash with herbed goat cheese and bake them as an elegant appetizer.
 

So, What Can You Do With Patty Pan Squash?

You can do a whole lot with patty pan squash, from roasting and grilling to stuffing, pickling, and baking.
 
This versatile summer squash works in almost any recipe that calls for zucchini or yellow squash, and its unique shape makes it especially fun for stuffing.
 
Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight side or planning an impressive dinner party dish, patty pan squash delivers flavor and flair every time.
 
So next time you see those little scalloped squash at the market, grab a few and get creative.
 
You’ll be glad you did.