MEXICAN CASSEROLE

Looking for a delicious and easy Mexican-inspired dish? This Mexican Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a hit with your family! Packed with flavor and simple to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can corn, drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup salsa
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• Tortilla chips

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F.
• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease.
• Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
• In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the bottom with tortilla chips. Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture over the chips. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
• Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 600mg

Give this Mexican Casserole a try and let us know what you think! Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Enjoy!

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe if desired.

• Q: Can I omit the bell pepper?

A: Yes, feel free to leave out the bell pepper if you prefer or substitute it with another vegetable.

• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.

• Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers for later consumption.

• Q: Is this dish gluten-free?

A: If you use gluten-free tortilla chips, this dish can be made gluten-free.

• Q: Can I add other toppings like avocado or sour cream?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite toppings.

• Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?

A: Yes, fresh tomatoes can be substituted for canned diced tomatoes in this recipe.

• Q: Can I add more spices for extra heat?

A: Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder or add additional spices to suit your taste preferences.

• Q: Can I use a different type of beans?

A: Yes, you can use kidney beans, pinto beans, or any other beans you prefer in place of black beans.

Helpful tips:

• Try adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top before serving.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
• Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
• To make this dish vegetarian, omit the ground beef and add extra beans or tofu.
• For a crispy topping, crush some extra tortilla chips and sprinkle them on top before baking.
• Serve with a side of Spanish rice or a salad for a complete meal.
• Make a double batch and freeze one for a quick meal later on.
• Top with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a burst of freshness.
• Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite Mexican-inspired ingredients.

Expert Secrets:

• For a deeper flavor, sauté the onions, bell pepper, and spices before adding the ground beef.
• Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
• Adjust the amount of chili powder and cumin to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
• Make a vegetarian version by using meatless crumbles or extra beans in place of the ground beef.
• Add a layer of refried beans or sliced jalapenos for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
• Experiment with different types of salsa to change up the flavor profile of the casserole.
• Top the casserole with crushed corn chips for added crunch and texture.
• Garnish with fresh avocado slices or a squeeze of lime juice before serving for a burst of freshness.