Southern 4-ingredient baked ranch pennies are the kind of easy little side dish or snack that disappears fast at potlucks, tailgates, and weeknight dinners. “Pennies” usually means sliced yellow squash cut into coin-shaped rounds, and this baked version keeps things simple with ranch seasoning, a buttery coating, and a crisp baked finish that brings out that comforting Southern flavor without much fuss at all.
These are wonderful alongside grilled chicken, burgers, barbecue, meatloaf, or a bowl of pinto beans. I also like setting them out with ranch dip or a cool sour cream dip for snacking, especially if you’re serving them for game day or a casual family get-together where everyone reaches for seconds.
Southern 4-Ingredient Baked Ranch Pennies
Servings: 6
Ingredients
4 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
4 tablespoons melted butter
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking tray with foil for easy cleanup. Lightly grease the foil if you’d like even easier release.
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced yellow squash with the melted butter until all the pieces are lightly coated.
3. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese, then toss again until the squash is evenly coated.
4. Spread the squash rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking tray. Try not to overcrowd them so the edges can turn golden instead of steaming.
5. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pennies are tender and the bottoms and edges are golden brown. For a little extra color, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
6. Serve warm right from the tray or transfer to a platter. They’re best while the edges are still crisp and the Parmesan is fresh and savory.
Variations & Tips
For extra crisp edges: Pat the squash slices dry with paper towels before tossing them with the butter. Squash holds a lot of moisture, and removing a little of it helps the pennies roast instead of soften.
For picky eaters: Use a little less ranch seasoning the first time if your family prefers a milder flavor. You can also serve the pennies with plain ranch dressing on the side so everyone can season to taste.
Cheesy version: Add a small handful of shredded cheddar during the last few minutes of baking for a more casserole-style finish. It melts over the top and makes these feel especially hearty next to burgers or barbecue.
Make it with zucchini: Swap half the yellow squash for zucchini for a pretty mixed tray and a slightly different flavor. The baking time stays about the same, and the green-and-yellow mix looks lovely on a serving platter.