Craving a dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to make? Look no further than this incredible Mexican Casserole Recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this dish combines layers of flavorful ground beef, zesty salsa, hearty beans, and melty cheese, all topped with crunchy tortilla chips and fresh toppings. Get ready to enjoy a family-favorite meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious to devour.
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Why You’ll Love This Mexican Casserole
This isn’t just another casserole; it’s a flavor-packed experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Here’s why this Mexican Casserole recipe is a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: Made with convenient ingredients like canned beans and jarred salsa, this recipe comes together in no time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The combination of seasoned ground beef, tangy salsa, and melted cheese is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to your liking by adding your favorite veggies, using different types of beans, or adjusting the spice level.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Mexican Casserole reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prepping or enjoying the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Your Mexican Casserole
Before you start cooking, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef (ground turkey works great too!)
- 1 (16 ounce) jar salsa
- 1 (15 ounce) can chili beans, undrained
- 1 (2.25 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 Roma tomato, diced
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Mexican Casserole
Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious Mexican Casserole:
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Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and crumbly. This should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
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- Simmer with Salsa and Beans: Stir the salsa into the skillet with the cooked beef. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed, approximately 20 minutes. Then, stir in the chili beans and cook until everything is heated through.
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- Layer the Casserole: Spread the crushed tortilla chips evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the beef and bean mixture on top of the chips. Spread the sour cream over the beef mixture, creating a creamy layer. Sprinkle the black olives, green onions, and diced tomatoes over the sour cream. Finally, generously cover the top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
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- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
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- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Scoop out generous portions and get ready for a fiesta in your mouth!
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Tips for the Perfect Mexican Casserole
- Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add a packet of taco seasoning to the ground beef while cooking or use a hotter salsa. You can also include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or onions into the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend would all be delicious alternatives to Cheddar.
- Creamy Dreamy: For an even creamier casserole, mix a block of cream cheese with the sour cream before spreading it over the beef layer.
- Homemade Salsa Boost: While jarred salsa is convenient, using homemade salsa will elevate the flavors of your casserole.
Serving Suggestions for Mexican Casserole
This Mexican Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance your dinner with some tasty side dishes:
- Rice and Beans: Serve with a side of cilantro lime rice or Mexican rice for a heartier meal.
- Salad: A fresh and light salad, like a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, provides a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Cornbread: Warm cornbread is a classic pairing with Mexican-inspired dishes and is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with extra sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, or hot sauce so everyone can customize their serving.
- Drinks: Pair your Mexican Casserole with a refreshing Margarita, iced tea, or your favorite Mexican beer.
Storing and Freezing Your Mexican Casserole
Storing Leftovers: Store leftover Mexican Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.
Freezing for Later: Mexican Casserole freezes exceptionally well. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed until heated through and bubbly.
Enjoy this easy and delicious Mexican Casserole recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a regular in your meal rotation.
