1 lb frozen butternut squash, cubed (around 3-4 cups)
1 bell pepper, either sliced or chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, as per taste
1 can (15 oz.) black beans, drained
1 cup cooked ground beef
1 cup shredded cheese
1 cup freshly chopped kale
¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional, for that extra kick!)
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2
In your casserole dish, combine the squash and bell pepper. Drizzle them lovingly with olive oil.
3
Let them bake for approximately 20 minutes, just until the squash starts to soften. If there's any excess liquid, drain it off.
4
Time to add some zest! Mix in the paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, black beans, ground beef, half the cheese, and kale.
5
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that gooey goodness.
6
Bake for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring everything melds together beautifully.
7
For those who like it hot, sprinkle some crushed red pepper on top.
8
Serve piping hot and savor every bite!
Special Notes & Tips:
- For a smoother cooking experience, prepare your ground beef in advance.
- Ensure the butternut squash is cooked just right - soft but not mushy, as it will continue to cook with the other ingredients.
- To save on prep time, consider using pre-cut or frozen butternut squash.
- Customize the spice level to your liking by adjusting the amount of crushed red pepper. Turn up the heat or keep it mild; the choice is yours!
Ingredients
1 lb frozen butternut squash, cubed (around 3-4 cups)
1 bell pepper, either sliced or chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, as per taste
1 can (15 oz.) black beans, drained
1 cup cooked ground beef
1 cup shredded cheese
1 cup freshly chopped kale
¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional, for that extra kick!)