Here’s a Oven-Fried Squash recipe that delivers crispy, golden slices without deep frying. This recipe works well with yellow summer squash or zucchini.
🥒 Oven-Fried Squash Recipe
✅ Ingredients:
For the Squash:
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2 medium yellow squash or zucchini (about 1.5–2 lbs)
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1 teaspoon salt (for sweating the squash)
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1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
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1 egg (optional, for richer coating)
For the Coating:
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1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
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½ cup cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but tasty!)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt to taste (about ½ tsp)
For Cooking:
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Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil spray
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Baking sheet and wire rack (preferred for crispiness)
🕒 Prep & Cook Time:
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Sweating Time: 30 minutes (optional but improves texture)
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Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
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Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes (with sweating), or ~45 minutes without
🧑🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
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Wash and slice the squash into ¼-inch thick rounds.
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Lay slices on a paper towel and sprinkle both sides with salt.
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Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture (optional but reduces sogginess).
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Pat slices dry with fresh paper towels.
2. Preheat the Oven:
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Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and spray with oil. This helps with even crisping.
3. Set Up Breading Stations:
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Bowl 1 (Wet): Mix buttermilk and egg.
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Bowl 2 (Dry): Combine breadcrumbs, cornmeal, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bread the Squash:
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Dip each squash round in the wet mixture, then coat it in the dry mixture.
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Press lightly to help the coating stick.
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Place the breaded slices on the prepared rack.
5. Bake:
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Lightly spray the tops of the squash rounds with oil.
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Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then flip each slice.
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Spray again and bake another 10–15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
Serve warm with:
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Ranch or spicy aioli dip
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Marinara sauce
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As a side to grilled meats, sandwiches, or summer salads
🔁 Tips & Variations:
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Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornmeal.
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Extra Crunch: Double dip (wet → dry → wet → dry again) for thicker coating.