MEXICAN CASSEROLE
Craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Easy Mexican Casserole. It’s been a beloved staple in our household for years, thanks to its hearty and filling nature. With just a bit of prep in the morning, you can have dinner on the table in no time after a long day. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s sure to win over the entire family. Did I mention how easy it is to make?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Convenient: Assemble in the morning and bake when you’re ready to eat.
- Adaptable: Customize to suit picky eaters by adjusting ingredients like beans and beef.
- Family-Friendly: This is a surefire hit with both kids and adults.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- 13×9 inch baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 15 ounce can ranch-style beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom or chicken soup
- 12 ounce package corn tortillas
- 4 cups shredded cheese
- 3 tablespoons Taco Seasoning
- 1 bag Tortilla Chips (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat if desired.
- Add taco seasoning, beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and soup to the beef. Mix well and heat through.
- Spread about a cup of the meat mixture across the bottom of a 13×9 inch baking dish.
- Top with a single layer of corn tortillas.
- Spread half of the remaining meat mixture over the tortillas, then cover with cheese.
- Repeat with another layer of corn tortillas.
- Finish with the remaining meat mixture and the rest of the cheese.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Serve with tortilla chips if desired.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the tortillas are corn, as flour tortillas tend to become soggy.
- Assemble the casserole in advance to save time on busy nights.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Spice it up with jalapeños or extra chili powder if you like more heat.
- Use a mixture of cheeses for added flavor complexity.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Details will vary based on ingredient brands and modifications, but this casserole is typically high in protein and provides a good amount of calcium from the cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use flour tortillas? It’s not recommended, as they tend to get too soggy in this recipe.
- How can I make this vegetarian? Swap the ground beef for a meat substitute and use a vegetarian soup option.
In conclusion, this Easy Mexican Casserole is a deliciously simple recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Try it out and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear about your own twists on this classic dish.
