unusual casserole recipes

Take your casserole game to a whole new level with this Pumpkin and Black Bean Enchilada Casserole. This unusual casserole recipe is a delicious combination blending the creamy, slightly sweet flavor of pumpkin with hearty black beans, all wrapped in zesty enchilada sauce and topped with melted cheese. It’s a perfect fusion of autumn-inspired flavors and traditional Mexican comfort food, offering a nutritious, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s sure to impress.

Pumpkin and Black Bean Enchilada Casserole

Andrea

Pumpkin and Black Bean Enchilada Casserole brings together the best of both worlds—nutrient-rich pumpkin and protein-packed black beans in a zesty enchilada casserole. The creamy texture of the pumpkin pairs beautifully with the smoky black beans and enchilada sauce, creating a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is a must-try for those looking to experiment with unique and seasonal ingredients.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Servings 6 portions

Ingredients

  

• 400g pumpkin puree
• 240g black beans, drained and rinsed
• 200g corn tortillas
• 150g shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 100g red onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 10g cumin
• 5g paprika
• 30ml olive oil
• 300ml vegetable broth
• 20g fresh cilantro, chopped
• 5g salt
• 2g pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
• Add spices: Stir in cumin and paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
• Combine ingredients: Add pumpkin puree, black beans, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for about 5 minutes.
• Layer the casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the corn tortillas on the bottom. Spread half of the pumpkin and bean mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat with another layer of tortillas and remaining pumpkin mixture.
• Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top layer.
• Bake: Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
• Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh cilantro. Serve warm.

Notes

Here are some creative variations for the Pumpkin and Black Bean Enchilada Casserole recipe that incorporate different flavors and ingredients:

1. Sweet Potato and Quinoa Casserole
   • Replace pumpkin with 400g of diced sweet potatoes.
   • Add 150g of cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.
   • Season with smoked paprika and cumin for a warm flavor.
2. Butternut Squash and Spinach Casserole
   • Substitute pumpkin with 400g of cubed butternut squash.
   • Incorporate 200g of fresh spinach into the layers for added nutrition.
   • Use ricotta cheese instead of shredded cheese for a creamier texture.
3. Zucchini and Corn Casserole
   • Use 300g of grated zucchini in place of pumpkin.
   • Add 150g of corn kernels for sweetness and crunch.
   • Top with crumbled feta cheese instead of shredded cheese for a tangy flavor.
4. Chickpea and Cauliflower Casserole
   • Replace black beans with 240g of canned chickpeas.
   • Use 400g of roasted cauliflower florets instead of pumpkin.
   • Add curry powder to the sauce for a different spice profile.
5. Mushroom and Kale Casserole
   • Substitute pumpkin with 400g of sliced mushrooms.
   • Add 200g of chopped kale for a hearty, earthy flavor.
   • Use Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar for a nutty taste.
6. Lentil and Carrot Casserole
   • Replace black beans with 240g of cooked lentils.
   • Add 200g of grated carrots for sweetness and color.
   • Season with thyme and rosemary for an aromatic touch.
7. Mexican Street Corn Casserole
   • Incorporate 300g of roasted corn kernels into the casserole.
   • Use cotija cheese instead of shredded cheese for authenticity.
   • Add lime juice and cilantro to the filling for a fresh flavor.
8. Spicy Chipotle Pumpkin Casserole
   • Keep the pumpkin but add 10g of chipotle in adobo sauce for heat.
   • Mix in 100g of diced bell peppers for additional flavor and color.
   • Top with avocado slices before serving for creaminess.

These variations allow you to explore different flavors while maintaining the comforting essence of a casserole, making each dish unique and delicious!

 

 

If you like unusual recipes with different ingredients to the everything else. Try this unusual cookie recipe right here!!

Keyword casserole, unusual casserole

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.