Mexican Casserole

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Mexican Casserole: Bold, Cheesy, and Perfect for Family Dinners

Layers of seasoned beef, beans, crunchy tortilla chips, and melty cheese—baked to bubbly perfection

Introduction: A Tex-Mex Classic Made Easy

When you need a dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy, this Mexican Casserole delivers. It’s a layered dish that brings together everything we love about Tex-Mex cooking: seasoned ground beef, spicy tomatoes, creamy beans, crunchy chips, and gooey cheddar cheese—all baked into one irresistible casserole.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings, this dish is easy to assemble and even easier to devour. Serve it with sour cream and salsa, and you’ve got a meal that’s comforting, festive, and full of flavor.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this casserole so delicious:

Meat & Aromatics:

  • Lean ground beef (1 lb)
    Savory and hearty—forms the base of the filling.
  • Small onion (1, chopped)
    Adds sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.

Optional: Use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.

Flavor Boosters:

  • Ro-Tel tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz)
    Adds spice and tang—classic Tex-Mex flavor.
  • Ranch Style beans (1 can, 15 oz)
    Creamy and seasoned—adds richness and texture.
  • Taco seasoning (1 packet)
    A blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and herbs—easy and flavorful.
  • Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
    Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling.
  • Water (½ cup)
    Thins the mixture slightly for easier layering.

Tip: Substitute with chicken broth for extra flavor.

Crunch & Cheese:

  • Tortilla chips (10–12 oz bag, crushed)
    Adds crunch and structure—use just enough to layer.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided)
    Melts beautifully and adds sharp, creamy flavor.

Optional: Use a Mexican blend or pepper jack for extra kick.

For Serving:

  • Sour cream
    Cool and creamy—balances the spice.
  • Salsa
    Adds freshness and acidity—choose mild or spicy.

Optional: Add guacamole, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños.

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • 9×13-inch casserole dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Aluminum foil
  • Oven

Tip: Use a ceramic or glass dish for even baking and easy cleanup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

In a large skillet over medium heat:

  • Cook 1 lb ground beef and 1 chopped onion until browned and fully cooked.

Drain excess fat.

Stir in:

  • 1 can Ro-Tel tomatoes
  • 1 can Ranch Style beans
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • ½ cup water

Simmer for 5–7 minutes, until heated through and well combined.

Tip: Let the mixture thicken slightly for easier layering.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Layer as follows:

  1. Crushed tortilla chips (enough to cover the bottom)
  2. Half of the meat mixture
  3. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Repeat:

  • Another layer of crushed chips
  • Remaining meat mixture
  • Finish with remaining cheese

Optional: Add a layer of corn or black olives for extra texture.

Step 3: Bake

Cover with foil.

Bake for 20–30 minutes, until:

  • Cheese is melted
  • Casserole is bubbly

Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes for a golden top.

Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Tip: Resting helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Step 4: Serve

Serve warm with:

  • A dollop of sour cream
  • A spoonful of salsa

Yields:

  • 6–8 servings

Presentation Tip: Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or avocado slices.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Potluck parties
  • Game day spreads
  • Tex-Mex themed nights

Pair with:

  • Mexican rice
  • Refried beans
  • Corn salad
  • Margaritas or iced tea

Tip: Serve with lime wedges for a fresh squeeze of acidity.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Spicy Kick

Add diced jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning.

Extra Cheesy

Mix in cream cheese or queso for a richer filling.

Vegetarian Version

Use black beans, corn, and sautéed peppers instead of ground beef.

Bacon Ranch Casserole

Add crumbled bacon and ranch seasoning to the mix.

Mini Casseroles

Bake in ramekins or muffin tins for individual servings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in oven.

Tip: Reheat covered at 350°F to preserve moisture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 8)

  • Calories: ~420
  • Protein: ~25g
  • Carbohydrates: ~28g
  • Fat: ~24g
  • Sugar: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~700mg
  • Fiber: ~3g

This casserole is:

  • Hearty and cheesy
  • Easy to make
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Casserole is more than just a dinner—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, comforting textures, and easy weeknight cooking. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy, it’s guaranteed to satisfy and impress.

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