Throw Together Mexican Casserole is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that combines all the flavors of your favorite Mexican food in one convenient, bake-and-serve meal. This casserole is loaded with seasoned beef, beans, cheese, and tortilla chips, and it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering. It’s super simple to put together, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 3 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Vegetables
Add the taco seasoning and water to the cooked beef, stirring until well combined. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the chips, then spread the salsa over the beef. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the beef mixture, then top with the remaining crushed tortilla chips. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the Throw Together Mexican Casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, or any of your favorite toppings.
Cook Notes
- Meat Substitute: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa or crumbled tofu.
- Cheese Options: You can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of both if you prefer a different cheese flavor.
- Tortilla Chips: Use your favorite type of tortilla chips—either traditional, multigrain, or even flavored for a unique twist.
Variations
1. Spicy Mexican Casserole
Add 1-2 diced jalapeños or 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for extra heat.
2. Chicken Mexican Casserole
Substitute the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy alternative.
3. Layered Mexican Casserole
Create a layered effect by repeating layers of tortilla chips, beef mixture, cheese, and salsa for a more structured casserole.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Serve with additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, or fresh cilantro.
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad or Mexican coleslaw to balance out the hearty flavors.
- Rice and Beans: Serve with a side of Spanish rice and refried beans for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Throw Together Mexican Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Throw Together Mexican Casserole is a simple, hearty, and flavorful dish that brings all the delicious elements of Mexican cuisine into one convenient casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this dish is easy to customize and always a hit. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Mexico from the comfort of your own kitchen!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
