Easy to Adapt Mexican Casserole
An Easy to Adapt Mexican Casserole You’ll Love
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a casserole baking in the oven, and this Easy to Adapt Mexican Casserole is no exception. A family favorite for years, this hearty dish is brimming with delicious ingredients that make it a satisfying meal on its own. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete dinner that everyone will enjoy. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is not just delicious, but it’s also incredibly convenient. You can prepare it in the morning, go about your day, and simply pop it in the oven when you get home. Plus, it’s amazingly adaptable. Have picky eaters in the family? No problem! You can easily swap out ingredients—like leaving out the beans or adding beef—to suit everyone’s tastes. Just a quick note: avoid using flour tortillas, as they tend to become soggy.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- 13×9-inch baking dish
- Oven
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound of lean ground meat
- 15-ounce can of ranch style beans
- 1 can of diced tomatoes and green peppers, drained
- 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom or chicken soup
- 12-ounce package of corn tortillas
- 4 cups of grated cheese
- 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning
- 1 bag of tortilla chips (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add the taco seasoning, beans, diced tomatoes with green peppers, and soup to the browned beef. Mix well and heat through.
- Spread about one cup of the meat mixture along the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- Cover the meat mixture with a single layer of corn tortillas.
- Place half of the remaining meat mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Repeat the layering process with another layer of corn tortillas.
- Top with the remaining meat mixture and finish with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, uncovered.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to drain the tomatoes well to prevent extra moisture in the casserole.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to set before serving.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feeling adventurous? Add some jalapeños or olives for extra flavor. You can also substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and add extra beans or veggies like bell peppers and corn.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 400
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with this casserole? A fresh green salad or some tortilla chips on the side complement this dish perfectly.
How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Easy to Adapt Mexican Casserole is a delightful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try and feel free to tweak it to your liking. We would love to hear your thoughts and any creative adaptations you make, so don’t hesitate to share your experience in the comments below!
