Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

Flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for a quick family dinner, the Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant ingredients in just 30 minutes. This vegetarian recipe is not only delicious but also packed with fiber and protein, making it suitable for various occasions like weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy the unique blend of flavors that will impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy nights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber from black beans and vitamins from butternut squash, it’s a healthy choice for the whole family.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or pair it with sides like guacamole or sour cream for added flavor.
• Customizable Recipe: Easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything is made in one skillet!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-proof skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-proof skillet: This is essential for cooking everything in one pan and allows for easy transfer to the oven when broiling.
• Knife: A sharp knife will make chopping vegetables quick and efficient, ensuring even cooking throughout.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
• 3 cups ½-inch-diced, peeled butternut squash (from about a 2-lb. squash)
• Salt and pepper, to season
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ jalapeño, diced (and seeded if you want less spice)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Additional Ingredients

• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 8 yellow corn tortillas, cut into thick strips
• 1 (15 ounce) can red enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded colby jack or Mexican cheese (or whatever you prefer), divided
• Cilantro and Greek yogurt, for serving

How to Make Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Add olive oil to a large oven-proof skillet and place over medium heat.
– Add onions, garlic, and jalapeño; cook for 3-5 minutes until onions become translucent and garlic is fragrant.

Step 2: Cook Butternut Squash

• Add cubed butternut squash, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Cook while stirring occasionally until the squash is slightly tender (about 10 minutes). Covering the pan with a lid can help speed up the cooking time.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

• Stir in black beans, corn tortilla pieces, and enchilada sauce until well combined.
• Reduce heat to medium-low. Sprinkle in ½ cup of cheese; stir again.

Step 4: Broil the Dish

• Turn on your oven broiler to high.
• Sprinkle an additional ½ cup of cheese over the top of the enchilada mixture.
• Place in the oven under broiler for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from oven and serve immediately. Garnish with cilantro and offer Greek yogurt or guacamole on the side if desired. Enjoy your delicious Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet!

How to Serve Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

Serving your Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is a delightful experience that enhances its flavors. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Adding fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness and complements the spices beautifully.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.

Pair with Creamy Toppings

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt offers creaminess and balances the spice level of the enchiladas.
• Guacamole: The rich, creamy texture of guacamole pairs well with the skillet dish, providing a delicious contrast.

Serve with Extra Sauces

• Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, a drizzle of hot sauce can enhance flavor and spice.
• Salsa Verde: This tangy sauce adds brightness and extra flavor, making each bite more exciting.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

To achieve the best results with your Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet, keep these tips in mind for an even tastier dish.

• Choose ripe squash: A ripe butternut squash will be sweeter and provide a better texture in your dish.
• Cut uniform pieces: Ensuring the squash is cut into similar-sized cubes will help it cook evenly.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground cumin and chili powder can significantly boost the flavor profile of your skillet.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of jalapeño based on your preference for heat—leave it out for milder flavors.
• Consider protein options: For added protein, try incorporating cooked chicken or turkey into the mixture.
• Experiment with cheese alternatives: If you want to go dairy-free, explore plant-based cheese options for a similar taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the flavors of the enchiladas perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Rich, creamy refried beans add an extra layer of protein to your meal.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred vegetables bring both color and added nutrients to your dinner plate.
4. Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, tomatoes, and lime juice enhances the overall flavor profile.
5. Avocado Salad: Sliced avocados tossed in lime juice provide creaminess that pairs well with the enchilada skillet.
6. Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens dressed lightly offers a crisp balance to the hearty skillet dish.
7. Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich quinoa salad can serve as a filling side while adding different textures to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your cooking experience smoother and your dish even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Properly seasoning your butternut squash and black bean enchilada skillet is crucial. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper at each stage of cooking to enhance the flavors.
• Overcooking the squash: If you cook the squash too long, it may become mushy. Aim for fork-tender pieces; covering the skillet can help speed up cooking without overdoing it.
• Not using enough cheese: Cheese adds creaminess and flavor. Don’t be shy about sprinkling extra cheese on top before broiling—it’s what makes this dish so enjoyable!
• Ignoring the tortillas: Cutting your corn tortillas too small can lead to a soggy texture. Cut them into thick strips to ensure they hold up well in the skillet.
• Skipping the broiler step: Broiling adds a nice golden crust on top of your enchilada skillet. Don’t skip this step if you want that appealing melted cheese finish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Allow the skillet to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

• item Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• item Portion out individual servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• item Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until warm.
• item Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet.

What can I substitute for cheese in the Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet?

You can use dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether. Drizzling with jalapeño green tahini sauce can also add flavor without cheese.

Can I add protein to the Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet?

Absolutely! You can include shredded chicken, ground turkey, or cooked beans for an extra protein boost.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To ensure your Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is gluten-free, opt for corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.

Can I use different beans in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Butternut Squash and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize with different proteins or toppings based on your taste. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a meal prep favorite, this dish is sure to impress!