Cheesy Baked Squash-Quick & Easy Air Fryer Recipe

If you’re searching for the perfect easy side dish, look no further, this cheesy baked squash casserole is quick, flavorful, and the ultimate comfort food. With just a few simple ingredients and less than 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a golden, bubbly dish! 

Whether you make it in the oven or air fryer, this recipe is a winner. The combination of tender squash, savory seasonings, rich spaghetti sauce, buttery crackers, and gooey cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Only 20 minutes start to finish.

• Family-Friendly: A veggie dish even picky eaters will love.

• Versatile: Works in both the oven and the air fryer.

• Comforting: Layers of flavor with sauce, cheese, and crunchy crackers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Fresh squash, cut in half

• Olive oil (for brushing)

• Seasonings: salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika

• Spaghetti sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• Crushed butter crackers (Ritz work perfectly)

• Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

Step-by-Step Instructions

 1. Prepare the Squash

Cut your squash in half lengthwise. Brush the flesh and skin lightly with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika.

 2. Bake or Air Fry

 Place the squash halves on a foil-lined pan.

• Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes.

• Oven: Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes until tender.

 3. Add Toppings

 Remove the squash and spoon spaghetti sauce over the top. Sprinkle with crushed crackers, then add a generous layer of shredded cheese.

 4. Finish Baking

 Return to the oven or air fryer for another 5 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

 5. Serve & Enjoy

 Serve warm as a cozy side dish or the main dish. I love pairing it with a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the seasonings.

• Try different cheeses: Mozzarella for melty gooeyness, cheddar for sharpness, or Parmesan for extra flavor.

• Go low-carb: Swap out crackers for crushed pork rinds or almond flour crumbs.

• Meal prep friendly: Bake ahead, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve.

Perfect Pairings

 This baked squash dish goes well with:

• Grilled chicken or steak

• Pasta dishes

• A fresh green salad

• Roasted salmon

Final Thoughts

 This cheesy baked squash casserole is proof that simple ingredients can create big flavors. It’s an easy recipe to add to your weeknight rotation and a great way to turn squash into a dish that everyone at the table will love.

Next time you’re craving a quick veggie side that feels like comfort food, give this recipe a try, you’ll be hooked after the first bite!