Craving authentic Mexican flavors without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This easy Mexican casserole recipe is your answer to a quick, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful experience that everyone will love. Forget complicated recipes – this is Easy Mexican Food at its finest!
- Gather all ingredients.
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- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9×13-baking dish with cooking spray.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 8 to 10 minutes.
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- Stir in salsa, reduce heat, and simmer until liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Stir in beans; cook until heated through.
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- Spread crushed tortilla chips over the bottom of the baking dish; spoon beef mixture on top. Spread sour cream over beef, then sprinkle olives, green onion, and tomatoes on top. Cover with Cheddar cheese.
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- Bake in the preheated oven until hot and bubbly, about 30 minutes.
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- Serve and enjoy!
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More About This Easy Mexican Recipe
This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about delivering big flavors with minimal effort. Using pantry staples like jarred salsa and canned beans, this easy Mexican casserole becomes a weeknight dinner champion. It’s the perfect dish to introduce you to the joys of easy Mexican food cooking at home.
Easy Mexican Casserole Ingredients
Here’s what you need to whip up this flavorful and easy Mexican casserole:
- Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef forms the hearty base. Ground turkey or even a plant-based ground meat substitute can be used for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Salsa: 1 jar of your favorite salsa. Whether you prefer mild, medium, or hot, choose a salsa that suits your taste. For an extra homemade touch, consider making your own salsa for an even more authentic easy Mexican food experience.
- Canned Beans: 1 can of chili beans and 1 can of black olives. These add texture and classic Mexican flavors to the casserole.
- Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips provide a delightful crunchy layer beneath the savory filling.
- Sour Cream: A generous layer of sour cream adds coolness and tanginess, balancing the richness of the dish.
- Fresh Toppings: Green onions and a fresh tomato add a burst of freshness and vibrant color.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded Cheddar cheese is the perfect melty topping, bringing it all together.
How to Make This Simple Mexican Casserole
Making this easy Mexican casserole is as simple as layering and baking! Here’s a quick rundown:
- Brown the Beef: Cook your ground beef in a skillet until browned and drain any excess grease.
- Simmer with Salsa and Beans: Stir in the salsa and let it simmer until slightly thickened. Then, add the chili beans and heat through. This creates the delicious and easy Mexican food flavor base.
- Layer and Bake: Layer crushed tortilla chips, the beef mixture, sour cream, toppings, and cheese in a baking dish. Bake until bubbly and heated through.
Quick Recipe Tip
Want to boost the flavor even more? Many home cooks love adding a packet of taco seasoning to the ground beef while it cooks. For a truly homemade touch, try our top-rated Homemade Taco Seasoning! It’s a simple way to elevate the easy Mexican food profile of this dish.
What to Serve with Your Mexican Casserole
While this Mexican casserole is a complete meal on its own, adding a side dish or two can create a fantastic easy Mexican food feast. Explore our collection of Mexican Side Dishes for inspiration. Consider serving it with classics like:
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A refreshing and zesty side that perfectly complements the richness of the casserole. Find a great recipe for Cilantro Lime Rice.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): The creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors of Elote are a wonderful addition to your easy Mexican food spread. Try this Elote recipe.
To complete your easy Mexican food night, don’t forget the drinks! A Classic Margarita is always a perfect choice.
Storing and Freezing Your Mexican Casserole
Storing Leftovers: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Freezing for Later: Yes, you can freeze Mexican casserole! Bake it in a foil pan for easy freezing. Cover tightly with storage wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead easy Mexican food option for busy times.
Community Love for This Easy Mexican Recipe
“Absolutely delicious! My family requests it all the time,” says one happy home cook. The ease and flavor of this Mexican casserole make it a repeat favorite in many kitchens.
Another reviewer notes, “Very tasty and flavorful. Adding taco seasoning really kicks it up a notch!” Simple additions can customize this easy Mexican food recipe to your family’s preferences.
“Dean Gapp says, “Versatile and easy! I’ve made it with both ground beef and shredded chicken – both were great!” The flexibility of this recipe makes it a go-to for easy Mexican food any night of the week.
Editorial contributions by Corey Williams
