Chickpea and Squash Stew Casserole

Servings: 6 Total Time: 2 hrs Difficulty: Intermediate
Craving something hearty and healthy? This Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole has got you covered! ๐Ÿฅฃ With a mix of veggies and chickpeas, itโ€™s a satisfying dish thatโ€™s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿณ
Chickpea and Squash Stew Casserole pinit

Hey there, friends! If youโ€™re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal thatโ€™s both filling and packed with flavor, this Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole is just the thing. Itโ€™s got all the cozy vibes, plus itโ€™s easy to make and perfect for any time of the year. With roasted butternut squash, chickpeas, and a flavorful blend of veggies, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Letโ€™s dive right into it and get this stew started!

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Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe

โ†’ Super Easy to Make โ€“ No complicated steps here. Just toss everything together and let the oven do its magic.

โ†’ Full of Flavor โ€“ The combo of roasted butternut squash, savory chickpeas, and juicy tomatoes is a match made in heaven.

โ†’ Comfort in a Bowl โ€“ Itโ€™s warm, hearty, and satisfyingโ€”perfect for chilly nights or when you need a cozy meal.

โ†’ Healthy & Filling โ€“ Packed with veggies and plant-based protein, this dish will keep you feeling full and energized.

โ†’ Leftovers Are a Win โ€“ It tastes even better the next day, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner again.

โ†’ One-Pan Wonder โ€“ Less cleanup? Yes, please! This casserole is made in one pan, so you can spend less time washing dishes and more time eating.

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What Youโ€™ll Need To Make

Letโ€™s talk about some of the key ingredients in this Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole and why they make this dish so special:

โ†’ Butternut Squash โ€“ This sweet and nutty squash is the star of the show! It adds a rich, comforting flavor that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Plus, itโ€™s packed with vitamins A and C, so youโ€™re getting a healthy boost. ๐Ÿฅฐ

โ†’ Chickpeas โ€“ These little powerhouses are not only packed with protein but also give the dish that hearty, filling texture. Theyโ€™ll keep you satisfied for hours! ๐Ÿ’ช

โ†’ Tomatoes โ€“ Plum tomatoes add a juicy, tangy kick to balance out the sweetness of the squash. They bring all those yummy flavors together in the most delicious way. ๐Ÿ…

โ†’ Bell Peppers โ€“ These colorful beauties bring in some crunch and a hint of sweetness, plus a pop of color to make the dish even more inviting. ๐ŸŒถ

โ†’ Olive Tapenade โ€“ For an extra burst of flavor, olive tapenade adds a savory, briny twist that takes this casserole to the next level. ๐Ÿซ’

Each of these ingredients comes together to create a dish thatโ€™s full of flavor, texture, and goodness. Itโ€™s a win for your taste buds and your health!

NOTE: For measurements and rest of the ingredients check the recipe card below.

What Youโ€™ll Need To Do

Time required: 2 hours

1| First things first, preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (180ยฐC). Weโ€™re getting that heat going!

2| Grab your butternut squash, slice it down the middle, scoop out those seeds, and plop it cut-side down right on the oven rack. Let it roast while we get everything else ready.

3| Now, heat up a big deep casserole pan over high heat. Toss in the mushrooms and let them dry sautรฉ for about 10 minutesโ€”just keep an eye on them and stir occasionally. Once theyโ€™re looking all nice and juicy, add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Let everything cook for another 10 minutes, stirring now and then. You want that good, soft texture.

4| Time to add some flavor! Pour in 1 tbsp. of olive oil, 1 tbsp. of red wine vinegar, and 1 tbsp. of black olive tapenade. Stir it all together, then let the liquid cook off a bit.

5| Next up: stir in the chickpeas (keep that lovely liquid in there!) and the plum tomatoes. Squeeze those tomatoes with your hands to break them upโ€”no need to be gentle! Add in about 1 canโ€™s worth of water.

6| Bring everything to a boil. Once itโ€™s bubbling away, carefully place the squash halves right on top of the stew, and pop the whole thing into the oven for 1 ยฝ hours. Youโ€™re looking for that squash to be nice and soft.

7| When the squash is ready, break it up right into the stew and give everything a good stir. Garnish with some chopped parsley, and youโ€™re ready to serve!

Chickpea and Squash Stew Casserole

Glycemic Index: 47 (low) Glycemic Load: 14(moderate)

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Recipe Swaps & Creative Tweaks

Here are some recipe swaps and tweak ideas for your Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole:

Recipe Swaps:

  • Swap Butternut Squash for Sweet Potatoes โ€“ If you prefer a sweeter flavor or canโ€™t find butternut squash, sweet potatoes work wonderfully. Theyโ€™ll still give that comforting, hearty texture!
  • Use Kidney Beans Instead of Chickpeas โ€“ If youโ€™re not a fan of chickpeas, kidney beans can be a great substitute. Theyโ€™ll add a similar texture and are equally packed with protein.
  • Try Zucchini Instead of Bell Peppers โ€“ If bell peppers arenโ€™t your thing, swap them out for zucchini for a lighter, more mild veggie option.
  • Swap Olive Tapenade for Green Olives โ€“ If you donโ€™t have tapenade, simply chop up some green olives for that same briny, salty kick.
  • Use Canned Diced Tomatoes Instead of Plum Tomatoes โ€“ Diced tomatoes are a great alternative if you donโ€™t have plum tomatoes on handโ€”theyโ€™ll work just as well in the stew.

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Recipe Tweaks:

  • Add a Dash of Spice โ€“ If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili to the mix.
  • Add Spinach or Kale โ€“ Toss in some fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a burst of color and added nutrition.
  • Top with Cheese โ€“ For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated parmesan or vegan cheese on top before serving, or bake it for the last few minutes for a melty finish.
  • Add a Splash of Coconut Milk โ€“ For a creamier texture and a slight tropical flavor, stir in a bit of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
  • Try Quinoa Instead of Chickpeas โ€“ For a grain-based twist, quinoa can replace chickpeas, making the dish gluten-free and adding a light, fluffy texture.

These swaps and tweaks will give your Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole a fresh spin every time!

Helpful Tips for Success

Here are some useful tips for making your Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole even better:

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1| Peel the Squash for a Smoother Texture โ€“ If you prefer a smoother, creamier texture in your stew, feel free to peel the butternut squash before roasting. This will give a more velvety finish when itโ€™s broken up into the stew.

2| Toast the Mushrooms โ€“ Dry sautรฉing the mushrooms before adding other ingredients helps intensify their flavor and gives them a nice golden-brown texture. Itโ€™s worth the extra few minutes!

3| Use Vegetable Broth for Extra Flavor โ€“ If you want a deeper flavor, try using vegetable broth instead of water when adding the chickpeas and tomatoes. It will add a rich savory base to the stew.

4| Crush the Tomatoes by Hand โ€“ Crushing the plum tomatoes with your hands allows for more control over the texture of the stew. Youโ€™ll get a mix of chunky and smooth bits, which gives it a great bite.

5| Check the Squash for Softness โ€“ Oven times can vary, so make sure to test the squash by poking it with a fork. It should be soft and easy to break up into the stew. If itโ€™s not, give it a bit more time in the oven.

6| Let the Stew Rest โ€“ If you have the time, let the stew sit for 10-15 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, and itโ€™ll taste even better!

7| Garnish with Fresh Herbs โ€“ Donโ€™t skip the parsley! A little fresh herb garnish adds brightness and freshness to balance out the rich, hearty flavors.

8| Batch Cooking Tip โ€“ This recipe makes great leftovers, so consider doubling it and storing half in the fridge for easy meals later in the week. It also freezes really well!

These tips will help you make the most of the recipe and ensure itโ€™s as delicious as possible every time!

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Chickpea and Squash Stew Casserole

Serving Ideas

Here are some great serving ideas for your Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole:

1| Serve Over Rice or Quinoa โ€“ For an extra hearty meal, serve the stew over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains soak up all the delicious sauce and add a bit of texture.

2| With a Side of Crusty Bread โ€“ Nothing beats a warm, crusty loaf of bread on the side to dip into that savory stew. A nice baguette or sourdough would be perfect!

3| Top with a Dollop of Yogurt โ€“ For a creamy finish, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt on top. It adds a cool contrast to the warm stew and a little tang.

4| Pair with a Fresh Salad โ€“ A light, fresh salad with greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette makes the perfect side to balance the richness of the stew. Try something like a simple arugula or spinach salad.

5| Serve with Roasted Vegetables โ€“ For a more veggie-packed meal, pair the casserole with roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower on the side.

6| Sprinkle with Cheese โ€“ If you enjoy cheese, sprinkle a little grated parmesan, feta, or vegan cheese on top of the stew just before serving for a salty, savory kick.

7| As a Topping for Baked Potatoes โ€“ For a fun twist, serve the stew as a topping for baked potatoes. The creamy potato base complements the hearty stew perfectly.

8| With a Side of Pickled Vegetables โ€“ The tangy crunch of pickled vegetables can add an interesting contrast to the warmth and richness of the casserole.

These serving ideas will give you plenty of delicious ways to enjoy this flavorful dish!

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Storage Options

Here are some storage options to keep your Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole fresh for later:

1| Refrigeration โ€“ After the casserole has cooled down to room temperature, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Itโ€™ll stay good for up to 4-5 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop when youโ€™re ready to enjoy!

2| Freezing โ€“ If youโ€™d like to store it longer, this stew freezes really well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When youโ€™re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat!

3| Individual Portions โ€“ For easy meal prep, you can divide the stew into individual servings before storing. This way, you can just grab a portion, heat it up, and go! Use small containers or freezer-safe bags for this.

4| Reheat with a Splash of Water or Broth โ€“ When reheating, the stew might thicken up a bit. Just add a small splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up, stirring occasionally.

5| Donโ€™t Store Toppings Separately โ€“ If youโ€™re planning on freezing leftovers, itโ€™s best to leave any fresh toppings (like parsley, yogurt, or cheese) off until youโ€™re ready to serve. This helps keep everything fresh and tasty.

With these storage options, youโ€™ll have this delicious stew ready to go whenever you need it!

Try my other recipes, here.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it! A deliciously simple, warm, and satisfying Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole thatโ€™s sure to brighten up your day. Itโ€™s the kind of dish thatโ€™s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers for lunch. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of this cozy goodness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Recipe Card

Chickpea and Squash Stew Casserole

This Chickpea & Squash Stew Casserole is pure comfort in a bowl! ๐Ÿฒ Packed with roasted butternut squash, savory chickpeas, and juicy tomatoes, itโ€™s the perfect cozy meal for any day. Plus, itโ€™s super easy to make! ๐Ÿ™Œ

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 110 mins Total Time 2 hrs Difficulty: Intermediate Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 14 Calories: 331

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1:
    Preheat the oven to 350ยฐF (180ยฐC).
  2. Step 2:
    Carefully halve the butternut squash lengthwise, remove the seeds, and place the squash cut-side down directly on the oven rack.
  3. Step 3:
    Heat a large, deep casserole pan over high heat. Dry sautรฉ the mushrooms for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the mushrooms have released their moisture, add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
  4. Step 4:
    Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of black olive tapenade to the pan. Allow the liquid to evaporate before stirring in the chickpeas with their liquid, as well as the plum tomatoes. Gently crush the tomatoes by hand. Add an additional canโ€™s worth of water.
  5. Step 5:
    Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, place the squash halves on top of the stew and transfer the casserole pan to the oven. Bake for 1 ยฝ hours, or until the squash is fully tender.
  6. Step 6:
    Once the squash is cooked, break it into pieces and stir it through the stew. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6


Amount Per Serving
Calories 331kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7g11%
Total Carbohydrate 53g18%
Protein 14g29%

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This casserole actually tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight. You can prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and just reheat when youโ€™re ready to serve. Itโ€™s perfect for meal prep or hosting.

Can I use a different type of squash?

Absolutely! If you canโ€™t find butternut squash, you can swap it for other squash varieties like acorn or kabocha squash. Theyโ€™ll give a similar texture and sweetness to the dish.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! This stew is 100% plant-based, making it a great vegan option. Just be mindful of any non-vegan toppings like cheese or yogurt.

Can I add more protein to the recipe?

Definitely! If you want more protein, you can add extra chickpeas, or even try adding cooked lentils or tofu for an extra boost.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it down before storing it!

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add more veggies like carrots, zucchini, or spinach. This recipe is pretty flexible, so you can throw in whatever veggies you love!

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, try adding some chopped fresh chili, red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce while cooking.

Can I use canned squash instead of fresh?

While fresh squash gives the best flavor and texture, you can use canned squash if youโ€™re in a pinch. Just make sure to drain and rinse it before adding it to the stew.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! You can easily adapt this recipe to a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients and cooking on low for about 6-8 hours or until the squash is tender.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This casserole is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.

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