Easy Mexican Casserole

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An Easy Mexican Casserole that Will Delight Your Taste Buds

If you’re looking for a satisfying one-dish meal that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Easy Mexican Casserole. Combining the rich, hearty flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting texture of cornbread, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a fan of chicken enchiladas or cornbread, this recipe offers the best of both worlds in a single, delicious casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Mexican Casserole is a dream come true for busy cooks and Mexican food lovers alike. With minimal prep work, you can have a delicious, hearty meal that’s easily customizable. Want to add black beans or sautéed onions and fresh peppers? Go for it! Looking to make it lighter? Swap in skim milk or low-fat cheese. The versatility of this recipe means you can tweak it to fit your taste and dietary preferences, ensuring it’s always a hit.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large frying pan
• 9×13 casserole dish
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing spoon

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 can of Ranch Style beans
• 1 bag of 10-12 ounces tortilla chips, crushed
• 1 can of Ro-tel tomatoes
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 packet of taco seasoning
• 1 can of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup of water
• Sour cream and salsa for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large frying pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat, then drain off the fat.
3. Add the beans, Ro-tel tomatoes, chopped onion, taco seasoning, chicken soup, and water to the pan. Simmer over medium-low heat until the mixture is well blended and heated through.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom, followed by a layer of the meat and bean mixture, and then half of the cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
6. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbling.
7. Allow the casserole to stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream and salsa as desired.

Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure to drain the fat from the ground beef thoroughly to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy. Also, letting the casserole rest before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add more veggies like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the mix.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 400
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and consume within three months for the best taste.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?
Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, guacamole, or Mexican-style rice to round out the meal.

Conclusion

This Easy Mexican Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines convenience with deliciousness, making it perfect for any night of the week. We invite you to try this recipe and tweak it to your liking. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative variations you discover along the way!

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