Description
Tex Mex Squash Casserole brings cheesy comfort straight from your kitchen to the dinner table, delivering a spicy southwestern twist that’ll have your family asking for seconds. Layers of tender squash, zesty peppers, and melted cheese create a hearty side dish perfect for weeknight meals or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large yellow squash
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dairy and Binding Ingredients:
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Slice 2 large yellow squash into thin, uniform rounds. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Saute squash until softened, then transfer to paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
- Use the same skillet to cook 1 pound ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain fat completely. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper into the meat. Add 2 tablespoons water and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a baking dish and create your first layer with the sauteed squash rounds. Spread the seasoned meat mixture evenly across the squash.
- Dot 4 ounces of softened cream cheese across the meat layer in small dollops. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the entire surface.
- Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbly texture. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Drain squash thoroughly on paper towels to prevent a watery casserole and ensure a thick, rich texture.
- Experiment with ground turkey for a leaner protein option that still packs tons of Tex-Mex flavor.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best melting consistency and richest flavor profile.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- Prep Time: 10-12 minutes
- Cook Time: 27-35 minutes
- Category: Casseroles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 377 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 370 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg