This Mexican Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With layers of seasoned ground beef, corn tortillas, and a blend of fresh and canned ingredients, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Mexican Casserole. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Mexican Casserole:
- 1 lb extra lean ground beef (drained or rinsed)
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup canned jalapeno slices, chopped
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped or 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (1 1/4-ounce) package taco seasoning mix
- 8 corn tortillas
- 3/4 cup nonfat sour cream
- 1/3 cup reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend, shredded
- 1/3 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Jalapenos and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped jalapeno slices and taco seasoning mix. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until well combined.
- Add Tomatoes, Corn, and Beans: Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes), kernel corn, and black beans to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Ingredients: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer 4 of the corn tortillas, covering the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the ground beef mixture over the tortillas. Top with half of the nonfat sour cream and half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining 4 corn tortillas, the rest of the ground beef mixture, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the top. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Ground Beef: Ensure the ground beef is fully cooked and drained to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
- Tortillas: Corn tortillas are recommended for their texture and flavor, but you can use flour tortillas if preferred.
Variations
- Spicy Casserole: Add a can of diced green chilies or use spicy taco seasoning for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and add extra beans or a meat substitute.
- Cheese Variations: Use a blend of cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with Mexican Casserole?
A: This casserole pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, a green salad, or refried beans. You can also serve it with tortilla chips and salsa.
Q5: Can I use different vegetables?
A: Yes, you can add or substitute vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
This Mexican Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, corn tortillas, and a blend of fresh and canned ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying casserole that everyone will love. Serve this delightful dish with your favorite sides for a complete and hearty meal!
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting family meal, or a fun dish to share with friends, this Mexican Casserole is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.
