MY AUNT BETTY’S MEXICAN CASSEROLE
If Mexican food always sounds like a good idea in your house the way it does in ours, then this ultimate Mexican Casserole is a must for your meal plan this week! It combines pantry staples with fresh ingredients for that rich, cheesy Southwest sensation that we never seem to stop craving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Thanks to main ingredients that are often on hand at home – brown rice, canned beans and tomatoes, and cheese – this recipe is the pinnacle of easy and healthy comfort food. This Mexican casserole with rice is a good Mexican dish because it relies on classic Mexican flavors, but with a healthy spin.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- 9×13 casserole dish
- Foil
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can Ranch Style beans
- 1 10 oz bag tortilla chips, crushed
- 1 can Ro-tel tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 C shredded ColbyJack cheese, divided
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ⅓ C water
- Sour cream and salsa for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and drain off any excess fat.
- Stir in the beans, tomatoes, onion, taco seasoning, cream of chicken soup, and water. Simmer over medium-low heat until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Grease a 9×13 casserole dish.
- Layer the bottom with crushed tortilla chips, followed by the meat/bean mixture, then half of the cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with the cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until bubbly.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Top with sour cream and salsa before serving.
Tips for Success
Make sure to drain the fat from the browned beef to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy. Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you can’t find Ranch Style beans, Bush’s Chili Beans are a great substitute. Alternatively, you can add taco seasoning to a can of pinto beans for a similar flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Just bake it a little longer if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are great alternatives to beef.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and eating My Aunt Betty’s Mexican Casserole as much as we do! It’s a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Southwest to your table with ease. We invite you to try it out and let us know how it turns out. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you might have tried!
