Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole

Cheesy and creamy, the Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole is a delightful, low-carb dish that shines as a side for any meal. This casserole combines fresh summer squash with savory flavors, making it a perfect addition to family gatherings, potlucks, or even weeknight dinners. Its unique blend of ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with flavor while still keeping your diet in check.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and spices creates a rich, satisfying taste.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy cooks.
• Low Carb Goodness: Perfect for keto diets, this casserole keeps your carb count low without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with chicken, beef, or turkey for an amazing meal or serve it alone as a vegetarian option.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy goodness and hidden veggies.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Medium-sized casserole dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet allows you to sauté the squash and onions evenly for optimal tenderness.
• Medium-sized casserole dish: This is perfect for baking your casserole evenly and getting that delicious bubbly cheese topping.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl helps combine all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.

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Ingredients

Cheesy, creamy and low carb squash casserole makes the perfect side dish.

For the Casserole

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 pounds summer squash, sliced
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 can rotel tomatoes, drained (may use mild if desired)*
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, grated (reserve ½ cup for topping)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

How to Make Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. A properly heated oven ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet:
* Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the sliced summer squash and diced onion.
* Cook while stirring occasionally until tender, about 8–10 minutes. Drain any liquid from the squash.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the drained squash and onion mixture with the remaining ingredients (remember to reserve ½ cup of cheese).
2. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a medium-sized casserole dish.
* Sprinkle with the reserved cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake in your preheated oven until the cheese melts and is bubbly—about 20–30 minutes.
Allow to set for about 5–10 minutes before serving.

Now you have a delicious Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole ready to impress! Enjoy!

How to Serve Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole

This cheesy and creamy Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole is a delightful side dish that pairs well with many meals. It is versatile and can enhance the flavors of various main courses.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken breasts complement the rich flavors of the casserole, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Alongside Beef Tacos

• Serve this casserole as a side for beef tacos to add a creamy texture to your taco night, enhancing the overall experience.

Paired with Lamb Chops

• The savory taste of lamb chops matches perfectly with the cheesy goodness of the squash casserole, making for an indulgent dinner option.

As Part of a Salad Platter

• Include small portions of the casserole in a fresh salad platter for a colorful and nutritious meal that combines textures and tastes beautifully.

How to Perfect Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole

Achieving the ideal Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole requires some simple tips. Here’s how you can elevate this dish to perfection:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh summer squash and onions enhances flavor and texture, making your casserole more vibrant.

• Drain Excess Liquid: Properly draining the squash after cooking prevents a watery casserole. This ensures your dish remains creamy rather than soggy.

• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is traditional, consider mixing in pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. This adds depth to your flavor profile.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your mixture before baking. Feel free to tweak salt, pepper, or even add spices like cumin or chili powder for additional zest.

Best Side Dishes for Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole

This squash casserole works well with various side dishes that can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables
   Colorful grilled vegetables provide a healthy contrast to the richness of the casserole. Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini work wonderfully.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs and lime juice adds brightness to your plate while keeping it low-carb-friendly.

3. Cauliflower Rice
   Offering a low-carb alternative to traditional rice, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors well and pairs nicely with the casserole’s richness.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   These can be filled with ground turkey or beef and spices, giving you an additional hearty option alongside your casserole.

5. Zucchini Noodles
   Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a refreshing base that complements the cheesy texture of the squash casserole.

6. Avocado Salad
   A simple avocado salad drizzled with lime juice adds creaminess and healthy fats, balancing out the dish’s overall flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and final dish.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using overripe squash can lead to a watery casserole. Choose fresh, firm squash for the best texture.
• Bold cooking time miscalculation: Cooking the squash too long before mixing can make it mushy. Aim for just tender to preserve the texture.
• Bold seasoning errors: Skipping salt and pepper adjustments may result in a bland dish. Always taste and adjust seasonings before baking.
• Bold cheese selection issues: Using pre-shredded cheese can affect meltability. Opt for block cheese and shred it yourself for better results.
• Bold baking temperature mistakes: Baking at too high a temperature can scorch the top while leaving the inside undercooked. Stick to 350 degrees for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole.

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes, zucchini or butternut squash can be great alternatives, offering different flavors and textures.

How can I make this Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for an extra kick.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and makes an excellent meal prep option that you can reheat throughout the week.

Can I substitute the cheese?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives if desired, but check their melting properties first.

Final Thoughts

This Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole is not only cheesy and creamy but also versatile as a side dish or main course. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours. Give it a try; you won’t regret it!