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Amazing Mexican squash casserole: 1 jar delight

Mexican squash casserol

Discover a delightful Mexican squash casserole that’s a true one-jar wonder. This recipe brings a southwest flair to your table with vibrant corn, bell peppers, savory spices, and melted cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
  • 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  3. Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the drained corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
  8. If using, stir in the fresh cilantro.
  9. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  10. Top with the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  12. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a spicier casserole, use a can of Rotel with habaneros or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • You can substitute zucchini or yellow squash for some of the corn if desired.
  • This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked before serving.

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