MEXICAN CASSEROLE

Introduction

Indulge in the savory flavors of a classic Mexican Casserole, a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together tasty ingredients like ground beef, beans, cheese, and zesty seasonings. This comforting casserole is easy to make and perfect for a filling weeknight dinner.

Why Make This Recipe

This Mexican Casserole recipe is ideal for those busy days when you want a quick and flavorful meal that the whole family will love. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the goodness of beans, meat, cheese, and spices in one delicious dish. Plus, it’s simple to put together and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

How to Make Mexican Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 can Ranch Style beans
• 1 10-12 ounce bag tortilla chips, crushed
• 1 can Ro-tel tomatoes
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 package taco seasoning
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup water
• Sour cream and salsa for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and drain off the fat.
3. Stir in the Ranch Style beans, Ro-tel tomatoes, onion, taco seasoning, cream of chicken soup, and water. Simmer over medium-low heat until well combined and heated through.
4. Grease a 9×13 casserole dish. Layer crushed tortilla chips, the meat/bean mixture, and half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until bubbly.
6. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream and salsa.

How to Serve Mexican Casserole

Serve this flavorful casserole hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a spoonful of salsa. Pair it with a side of rice, salad, or crunchy tortilla chips for a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Store Mexican Casserole

Store any leftover Mexican Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Mexican Casserole

• Customize the casserole by adding your favorite toppings like jalapenos, olives, or avocado slices.
• Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Stir in some corn or bell peppers for added color and flavor.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans. You can also use vegan cheese and cream of mushroom soup for a dairy-free option.

FAQs

1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of tortilla chips? Yes, you can layer corn tortillas instead of chips for a softer texture.
2. Is it okay to prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
3. Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the cooked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.