MEXICAN CASSEROLE
A Mexican casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine into a single, convenient meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something comforting and satisfying. This dish typically includes layers of seasoned ground beef or chicken, beans, corn, tortillas, and a variety of cheeses, all baked together until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 can Ranch Style beans
- 1 10-12 ounce bag tortilla chips, crushed (I didn’t use the whole bag)
- 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
Instructions:
- Set the oven’s temperature to 325. Brown the meat and remove any excess fat in a big skillet. Add the soup, water, taco seasoning, tomatoes, and beans and stir. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until all the ingredients are completely mixed and cooked through.
- Coat a 9 x 13 casserole dish with grease. Place half of the cheddar cheese on top of a layer of crushed tortilla chips, then a layer of the meat/bean mixture. Layers should be repeated. Bake, covered with foil, for 20 to 30 minutes, or until bubbling.
- When serving, let it settle for five to ten minutes. Add salsa and sour cream over top.
Tips for Making the Perfect Mexican Casserole
- Customize Your Protein:
- You can use ground beef, shredded chicken, or even ground turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using a mixture of beans and vegetables.
- Enhance the Flavor:
- Sauté onions and garlic with your meat for added depth of flavor.
- Add a small can of chopped green chilies for an extra kick.
- Layering Tips:
- Ensure the tortilla layers are evenly spread out and cover the entire dish to create a stable base for the casserole.
- Use enough cheese between layers to help bind the casserole together.
- Bean Options:
- While black beans are a common choice, you can use pinto beans or even a combination of different beans for variety.
- Salsa Selection:
- Choose your favorite salsa, whether mild, medium, or hot, depending on your spice preference. A chunkier salsa adds more texture to the casserole.
- Cheese Choices:
- A Mexican blend cheese works great, but you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses. For a gooey texture, add some mozzarella.
- Vegetable Additions:
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them briefly before layering.
- Spice It Up:
- If you like it spicy, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Prevent Soggy Casserole:
- If using corn tortillas, lightly fry them in a bit of oil before layering to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
- Drain and rinse canned beans and corn thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
- Make Ahead:
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. It’s a great option for meal prep.
- Freezing Instructions:
- To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Toppings:
- Fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream can add freshness and color to the dish.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the casserole with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh green salad, or a bowl of tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal.
- Leftovers:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
By following these tips, you can create a Mexican casserole that’s not only delicious but also tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!