Gather these fresh ingredients to create this delicious Tex-Mex Bake:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
- Chopped cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Creating the Tex-Mex Zucchini & Sweet Potato Bake is straightforward and enjoyable. Just follow these simple steps:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes, sliced zucchini, black beans, corn, and red bell pepper.
- Step 3: Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetable mixture and sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
- Step 4: Pour the seasoned vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese evenly over the top of the vegetable mixture.
- Step 6: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 35-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, the leftovers can be frozen. Just be sure to thaw it completely before reheating.
- What can I substitute for the cheese? You can use dairy-free cheese or omit it for a vegan version.
- Is this dish spicy? It has a mild heat from the chili powder. For more spice, add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
- Can I add meat to this dish? Absolutely! Ground turkey or shredded chicken would be delicious additions.
Conclusion
This Tex-Mex Zucchini & Sweet Potato Bake is a flavorful and nutritious option that makes it easy to enjoy a satisfying meal packed with vegetables. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food with a healthy twist. Pair it with a side salad or some warm tortillas for a complete meal that speaks to the heart of Tex-Mex cuisine. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the wholesome ingredients with every bite!
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