Cheesy, creamy, and low carb, the Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole is a delightful side dish that elevates any meal. This casserole combines the freshness of summer squash with zesty flavors, making it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Its unique blend of ingredients offers a satisfying taste that even non-keto eaters will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and spices creates a rich and creamy flavor profile.
- Low Carb Delight: Ideal for those on a keto diet, this dish is low in carbs but high in taste.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this casserole in no time.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as an everyday side dish that pairs well with many main courses.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Everybody loves a cheesy casserole! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make preparation smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium-sized casserole dish
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the squash and onions evenly without overcrowding them.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spills.
Ingredients
Cheesy, creamy and low carb squash casserole makes the perfect side dish.
Ingredients:
– 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 1/2 cup for topping)
– ½ cup sour cream
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ¼ tsp salt
– ¼ tsp black pepper*
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial to ensure your casserole cooks evenly.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the sliced summer squash and diced onion.
* Cook while stirring occasionally until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
* Drain any excess liquid from the squash to prevent a watery casserole.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine the drained squash and onion mixture with rotel tomatoes, cheddar cheese (except reserved cheese), sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper.
* Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Pour the mixture into a medium-sized casserole dish.
* Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top for that perfect melty finish.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
* Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, roughly 20-30 minutes.
* Once done, allow it to set for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole!
How to Serve Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole
Serving Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole can elevate any meal. This creamy, cheesy dish pairs well with various sides or can be enjoyed on its own. Here are some suggestions to make your dining experience even better.
With Fresh Avocado
- Sliced or diced avocado complements the casserole’s richness and adds a creamy texture.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve the casserole over mixed greens for added freshness and crunch. Drizzle with lime vinaigrette for a zesty touch.
As a Topping for Nachos
- Use the casserole as a topping for low-carb nachos, creating a fun and delicious appetizer or snack.
Accompanied by Salsa
- A side of salsa can enhance the flavors, adding a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the cheesy casserole.
With Cilantro Lime Rice
- For those who are not strictly keto, serving with cilantro lime rice adds flavor and freshness.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top your casserole with fresh cilantro or green onions for added color and flavor.
How to Perfect Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole
To achieve the best results with your Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh summer squash and onions will provide better flavor than canned or frozen alternatives.
- Drain Well: Make sure to drain excess liquid from the squash after cooking. This prevents a watery casserole.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper as needed for your preference.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for varied flavors.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to set for 5-10 minutes after baking enhances its texture.
- Cover While Baking: If you notice it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil in the first half of baking.
Best Side Dishes for Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mexican Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to traditional rice, seasoned with spices to complement the casserole.
- Grilled Chicken: Simple grilled chicken adds protein and pairs wonderfully with the cheesy dish.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, zucchini noodles serve as a great base under the casserole.
- Roasted Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers roasted until sweet make an excellent side filled with vitamins.
- Guacamole Salad: Creamy guacamole served on top of lettuce offers freshness that balances out the richness of the casserole.
- Spicy Black Beans: For those not on strict keto, spicy black beans add flavor and protein to your plate.
- Pickled Jalapeños: They bring heat and acidity, enhancing all flavors in your meal.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp skewers add protein while keeping things fresh and exciting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole, avoiding common pitfalls can greatly enhance your dish.
- Skipping the draining step: It’s crucial to drain excess liquid from the squash after cooking. If you skip this, your casserole may turn out watery and less flavorful.
- Using low-quality cheese: Opt for high-quality cheddar cheese for the best taste and melting properties. Cheaper cheeses may not melt well or impart the rich flavor you want.
- Not adjusting seasonings: Taste your mixture before baking. Adjusting salt and pepper can elevate your casserole’s flavor significantly.
- Overbaking the casserole: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so only bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Fresh ingredients make a difference in flavor. Ensure your summer squash and onions are fresh for the best results.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The casserole will last for 3–5 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole
- You can freeze the casserole for up to 2–3 months.
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- To maintain quality, label with date and contents.
Reheating Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole?
Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole is a low-carb dish that combines summer squash with flavors typical of Tex-Mex cuisine, making it both delicious and suitable for keto diets.
Can I use different vegetables in my casserole?
Yes! Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers while keeping the core recipe intact for that Tex-Mex flavor.
How do I make Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or opt for spicy Rotel tomatoes instead of mild ones in the recipe.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This casserole stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
The Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole stands out as a cheesy, creamy side dish that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize with various ingredients while maintaining its delightful flavors. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s perfect for family gatherings or as an easy weeknight dinner!
Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Tex-Mex Keto Squash Casserole is a cheesy, creamy side dish that perfectly blends the freshness of summer squash with bold Tex-Mex flavors. This low-carb delight is ideal for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or potlucks, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. With its rich combination of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and spices, this casserole offers comfort food vibes while keeping your diet on track. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a satisfying vegetarian option.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 pounds summer squash, sliced
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes, drained
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté sliced summer squash and diced onion until tender (8-10 minutes). Drain excess liquid.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with drained Rotel tomatoes, cheddar cheese (except reserved), sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and sprinkle reserved cheddar on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it set for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added flavor variations, include diced jalapeños or swap in different cheeses like Pepper Jack. Make ahead of time by prepping the casserole earlier in the day; simply bake when ready to serve.