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Ground Beef and Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe

Ground Beef and Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe

5.2 from 12 reviews

A hearty and nutritious Ground Beef and Butternut Squash Casserole combining tender butternut squash, flavorful ground beef, black beans, kale, and melted cheese for a comforting and balanced meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Produce

  • 1 lb frozen butternut squash, cubed (about 34 cups)
  • 1 large bell pepper (sliced or chopped)
  • 1 cup chopped kale

Meat and Protein

  • 1 cup cooked ground beef
  • 1 15 oz. can black beans (drained)

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)

Other Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole.
  2. Prepare vegetables: Place the frozen butternut squash cubes and sliced or chopped bell pepper in a casserole dish. Drizzle with olive oil to coat evenly.
  3. Bake initial vegetables: Bake the squash and pepper in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the squash just begins to soften, allowing flavors to develop.
  4. Drain excess liquid: Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and drain any extra liquid that has accumulated to avoid a soggy dish.
  5. Mix in remaining ingredients: Add paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, black beans, cooked ground beef, half of the shredded cheese, and chopped kale to the casserole dish. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixed casserole.
  7. Bake again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until everything is soft and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Add final touch: Once baked, optionally sprinkle crushed red pepper over the casserole for a spicy kick.
  9. Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve hot for a delicious, healthy meal.

Notes

  • Use fresh kale or spinach if preferred for a milder green.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add extra black beans or a meat substitute.
  • Adjust seasoning according to taste, adding more or less paprika and garlic powder.
  • Ensure to drain excess liquid before mixing ingredients to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef casserole, butternut squash casserole, healthy casserole, baked ground beef, black beans, kale casserole