How Do You Make Patty Pan Squash

You can make patty pan squash by roasting, sautéing, grilling, or stuffing these fun little flying-saucer-shaped vegetables.
 
Patty pan squash is one of those summer squashes that looks almost too cute to eat, but once you know how to make patty pan squash, it becomes a regular in your kitchen rotation.
 
If you’ve been staring at a basket of them from your garden or farmers market wondering how do you make patty pan squash taste amazing, you’re in the right place.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through how to make patty pan squash with simple methods, plus tips on prep, seasoning, and a couple of tasty variations.
 
Let’s get cooking.
 

How Do You Make Patty Pan Squash? Start With Prep

Before you make patty pan squash, you need to get them ready.
 
Patty pan squash have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and tender flesh, so how you prep them matters if you want the best texture.
 

1. Wash and Trim

Rinse your patty pan squash under cool water to remove any dirt or grit.
 
Small patty pan squash have thin, edible skin, so you don’t need to peel them when you make patty pan squash.
 
Just slice off the stem end and the little blossom end with a sharp knife.
 

2. Choose Your Cut

How do you make patty pan squash if they’re different sizes?
 
Little ones (about 1–2 inches) can be cooked whole or halved.
 
Medium squash (3–4 inches) are perfect for slicing into rounds or cutting into wedges.
 
Large patty pan squash have tougher skin and bigger seeds, so scoop out the seeds and cube the flesh before cooking.
 

3. Salt Them if You Like

If you want to make patty pan squash without a watery texture, sprinkle the cut pieces with salt and let them sit for 15 minutes.
 
Pat them dry, and you’re ready to cook.
 

Easy Ways to Make Patty Pan Squash

There are several ways to make patty pan squash, and each one brings out a different side of this versatile veggie.
 

1. Roasted Patty Pan Squash

Roasting is probably the easiest way to make patty pan squash, and the result is caramelized and delicious.
 
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
 
Toss sliced or cubed patty pan squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
 
Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
 
Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the edges are golden and tender.
 

2. Sautéed Patty Pan Squash

If you want to make patty pan squash on the stovetop, sautéing is quick and simple.
 
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
 
Add sliced patty pan squash and cook for 5–7 minutes until they soften and brown slightly.
 
Finish with minced garlic, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon.
 

3. Grilled Patty Pan Squash

Grilling is a fantastic way to make patty pan squash during summer cookouts.
 
Cut the squash into thick rounds or halve them lengthwise.
 
Brush with oil, season, and grill over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
 
The smoky char pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the squash.
 

4. Stuffed Patty Pan Squash

For a showstopper dish, make patty pan squash by stuffing the whole vegetable.
 
Hollow out medium squash, chop the scooped flesh, and sauté it with onion, garlic, and breadcrumbs.
 
Spoon the mixture back into the squash, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
 

Tips to Make Patty Pan Squash Taste Even Better

Once you know how do you make patty pan squash, a few extra tricks can take it to the next level.
 

1. Season Boldly

Patty pan squash has a mild flavor, so don’t be shy with seasonings when you make patty pan squash.
 
Try smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, or red pepper flakes.
 

2. Add Acid at the End

A splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar brightens up any dish you make with patty pan squash.
 

3. Don’t Overcook

The biggest mistake when you make patty pan squash is cooking it too long.
 
It should be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on it.
 

4. Pair With Parmesan

A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese is a simple way to make patty pan squash irresistible.
 

So, How Do You Make Patty Pan Squash?

You can make patty pan squash by roasting, sautéing, grilling, or stuffing it, and each method brings out its mild, sweet flavor.
 
The key is to prep them properly, season boldly, and avoid overcooking.
 
Now that you know how do you make patty pan squash, grab a few of these adorable squash and get cooking.