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The easy Mexican casserole has been a beloved staple in our family for years. This dish is hearty and packed with flavorful ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying meal. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you’ll have a complete feast. Did I mention how simple it is to whip up?
One great time-saving tip is to prepare this casserole in the morning before heading to work. When you return home, all you need to do is pop it in the oven, and dinner will be ready in no time!
This recipe is also incredibly versatile, perfect for accommodating picky eaters. If your family isn’t a fan of beans, feel free to swap them out for beef. It’s that easy!
However, a word of caution: flour tortillas don’t work well in this recipe as they tend to become too soggy. Stick with corn tortillas for the best results.
What are your favorite family recipes? If you’re watching your calorie intake, be sure to check out the delicious Weight Watchers Chicken Enchilada Bake! For a fun twist, try the Carne Asada Fries… YUMMY!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your family’s preferences. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- 13×9 inch baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound of lean ground meat
- 1 (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
- Corn tortillas (12 oz. package)
- 4 cups of grated cheese
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 bag of tortilla chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the taco seasoning, beans, diced tomatoes with green peppers, and soup to the beef. Stir well and heat until warm.
- Spread about one cup of the meat mixture on the bottom of a 13×9 inch baking dish.
- Cover the meat mixture with a layer of corn tortillas.
- Spread half of the remaining meat mixture over the tortillas, followed by a layer of cheese.
- Repeat with another layer of corn tortillas.
- Top with the remaining meat mixture and finish with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Tips for Success
For a crunchier texture, consider adding a layer of crushed tortilla chips on top before baking. Also, feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by using mild, medium, or hot diced tomatoes and green peppers.
Additional Tips or Variations
Try adding some corn kernels or chopped onions to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture. You can also use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for a richer taste.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 400
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it as directed.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Make sure it’s fully cooled before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy again.
Conclusion
I hope you’ll give this Easy to Adapt Mexican Casserole a try! It’s a delicious, stress-free meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any tweaks you make to the recipe. Enjoy!
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