Go Back
beef and butternut squash enchilada bake recipe

Cheesy Beef and Butternut Squash Enchilada Bake

Isabella C., a passionate food writer and recipe creator, smiling in a cozy kitchen while sharing her love for homemade dishes.Isabella C.
This Cheesy Beef and Butternut Squash Enchilada Bake is a delicious and hearty meal perfect for any weeknight. With layers of seasoned beef, tender butternut squash, and melty cheese, it's a comforting dish that brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Mexican-American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 430 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish lightly greased
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Baking Sheet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups butternut squash peeled and cubed
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño sliced

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the enchilada sauce, and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Begin by layering four tortillas on the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by a layer of roasted butternut squash and a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, squash, and cheese.
  • Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Serving

  • Cut the enchilada bake into slices and serve warm. Garnish with fresh cilantro or slices of jalapeño if desired for an extra kick.

Storage

  • Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Roast the butternut squash until it's just tender to avoid a mushy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
How to Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado slices.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the bake ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
Keyword beef enchilada casserole, butternut squash recipes, easy enchilada bake