Spiced Mexican Beef and Summer Squash Bake
This delightful casserole combines the fresh flavors of summer squash with seasoned ground beef, making it a hearty and satisfying dish. The vibrant spices of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika infuse the dish with warmth and depth, while a gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese tops it off for a comforting finish. Perfect for feeding a family or impressing guests, this recipe is an excellent way to utilize the abundance of garden-fresh yellow squash. Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground beef or Italian sausage
1 lb (browned and drained)
Oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
Yellow squash
3 medium (sliced)
Onion
1 small (sliced)
Garlic clove
1 (minced)
Diced tomatoes
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can (undrained; or 1 pint fresh diced and 1/2 cup water)
Chili powder
1 teaspoon (spice)
Cumin
1 teaspoon (spice)
Smoked paprika
1 teaspoon (spice)
Salt
to taste (seasoning)
Pepper
to taste (seasoning)
Cheddar cheese
1 cup (shredded)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Mexican Beef and Summer Squash Bake?
It is a hearty casserole dish that combines fresh summer squash with seasoned ground beef, vibrant Mexican spices, and melted cheddar cheese.
What type of meat can be used in this recipe?
You can use either one pound of ground beef or Italian sausage, which should be browned and drained.
How many yellow squashes are required?
The recipe calls for three medium-sized yellow squashes, sliced for the bake.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
One cup of shredded cheddar cheese is used to create a gooey, melted layer on top of the casserole.
What spices give this dish its Mexican flavor?
The dish is seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can substitute the canned diced tomatoes with one pint of fresh diced tomatoes and a half cup of water.
Do I need to drain the canned tomatoes?
No, the recipe specifies using one 14.5-ounce can of undrained diced tomatoes.
What aromatic vegetables are included in the base?
The recipe includes one small sliced onion and one minced garlic clove.
What is the purpose of the smoked paprika?
Smoked paprika infuses the dish with warmth and a depth of flavor that complements the beef and squash.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is categorized as a one-dish meal, making it convenient for family dinners.
What side dishes are recommended with this bake?
It is delicious served with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the juices.
How much oil is needed for sautéing?
You will need one tablespoon of oil for sautéing the vegetables.
Is this recipe a good way to use garden-fresh squash?
Absolutely, it is described as an excellent way to utilize an abundance of fresh yellow squash from the garden.
How much cumin is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for one teaspoon of cumin.
How much chili powder should I add?
The recipe requires one teaspoon of chili powder.
Does the recipe require salt and pepper?
Yes, salt and pepper should be added to taste for seasoning.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish is a comforting casserole with tender squash, savory beef, and a gooey melted cheese topping.
Is this dish suitable for guests?
Yes, its vibrant flavors and hearty nature make it perfect for impressing guests.
Can I substitute the yellow squash?
While the recipe specifies yellow squash, other summer squash varieties could likely be used as a substitute.
What is the preparation for the garlic?
The garlic clove should be finely minced before being added to the dish.
How should the onion be prepared?
The small onion should be sliced for this recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
It features warm spices like chili powder and cumin, but the heat level is generally mild unless extra spice is added.
What are the main tags for this recipe?
Key tags include Mexican casserole, ground beef, summer squash, and comfort food.
Is this considered a healthy dinner option?
Yes, with its inclusion of fresh vegetables and lean protein, it is tagged as a healthy dinner.
How much smoked paprika is in the recipe?
The recipe uses one teaspoon of smoked paprika.
What makes this a 'comfort food' dish?
The combination of melted cheese, savory meat, and warm spices provides a comforting finish.
Can I use Italian sausage for a different flavor?
Yes, Italian sausage is a suggested alternative to ground beef for this bake.
Is there a specific serving size?
The specific serving size is not listed, but it is intended to feed a family or group of guests.
What is the first step for the meat?
The meat should be browned and drained before being incorporated into the bake.
What kind of tomatoes are best if using fresh?
Fresh diced tomatoes work well when paired with a little water to maintain the dish's moisture.