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Instant Pot or

Stove top Mexican

Calabacitas

Mexican Calabacitas

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Mexican Calabacitas with hamburger offers a tantalizing fusion of flavors, embodying the vibrant essence of Mexican cuisine. Succulent ground hamburger is expertly combined with an assortment of garden-fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, yellow squash, zucchini, and onions, infusing the dish with a burst of colors and wholesome goodness. The aromatic blend creates a delectable harmony of tastes, from the mild sweetness of the squash to the tangy allure of the tomatoes. For those craving a fiery kick, the optional addition of Sriracha brings a delightful heat that elevates the dish to a whole new level of excitement. To crown this savory masterpiece, a generous layer of cheese melts into a creamy delight that unites all the elements, resulting in a comforting and unforgettable culinary experience that celebrates the vibrant and diverse spirit of Mexican cooking.

You Will Need

One Pound Hamburger

1 Medium Onion

2 medium zucchini 

1 Medium Yellow Squash

1 can corn (Drained)

1 15 oz can of tomato sauce

1 can 14.5 ounce diced tomatoes (drained)

2 tsp Italian Seasoning
1 TBSP plus 1 tsp Garlic Salt
2 tsp Minced Garlic
1/2 Stick of butter
3/4 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp salt 

1/2 Cup Water (Instant Pot Only)

3/4 and 1 half Cup Shredded Cheese (divided) 

1 TBSP Siracha (optional)

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Mexican Dishes

Instant Pot Calabacitas

  1. Start by placing your instant pot on sauté~ 

  2. Brown Hamburger and onion, until hamburger is no longer pink, and onions are almost translucent (Drain)

  3. Return ground beef to pot and add tomato sauce  butter, minced garlic, Zucchini, (sauté~ until slightly soft.)

  4. Add diced tomatoes and corn, Add the rest of your ingredients,  (except cheese) Mix well.

  5. Turn your sauté~ off.  

  6. Add water, Place your lid on your instant pot,

  7. set it to sealing and not venting,

  8. Manual 5 minutes, then do an instant release. 

  9. Once your pressure valve goes down, open your lid away from you. Add 1/2 cup of cheese)

  10. Then place in an oven-safe dish, and add 3/4 cup of cheese to the top, 

  11.  Broil for 3 minutes (or until your cheese is melted)

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Stove Top Calabacitas

  1. Heat a large pan over medium heat on the stove-top.

  2. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the pan. Cook the beef until there is no pink, and the onions are almost translucent. Drain any excess grease.

  3. Return the cooked beef and onions to the pan.

  4. Add the tomato sauce, diced zucchini, squash, diced tomatoes, and corn to the pan.

  5. Add seasonings over the vegetables and meat. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

  6. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer until the vegetables are soft. You can check and stir occasionally.  simmer covered until veggies are almost soft, then uncover and reduce liquid  to about half.

  7. Once the vegetables are soft and the liquid is reduced, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese into the mixture. Mix well until the cheese is melted and everything is combined. Add Siracha a little at a time until you get the desired heat you desire. (mix well)

  8. While the mixture is still hot, sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of shredded cheese over the top. Cover the pan for a minute or two to allow the cheese to melt.

  9. Garnish with fresh bay leaves if desired.

  10. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious and cheesy Calabacitas with ground beef!

This recipe should yield a flavorful and satisfying dish, perfect as a main course or a hearty side dish. The melted cheese adds a delicious finish to the dish. Bon appétit!

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 Better then Tex-Mex, Mexican Calabacitas is a delicious and versatile dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Mexico. Combining zucchini, corn, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, this traditional Mexican recipe offers a delightful medley of colors, textures, and aromas. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, Calabacitas brings a taste of Mexican cuisine to your table.

With various possible variations, you can customize this dish to suit your preferences and dietary requirements. From adding protein sources to experimenting with different cheeses and spices, the possibilities are endless.

Whichever way you choose to prepare it, Mexican Calabacitas is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a wonderful addition to any Mexican-inspired meal. So, get ready to savor the rich flavors and enjoy the taste of Mexico with this delightful and comforting dish. ¡Buen provecho! (Enjoy your meal!)

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