This Easy Mexican Casserole combines the bold flavors of ground beef, taco seasoning, and cheesy layers, all baked together for a perfect weeknight meal. With a crunchy layer of tortilla chips and a zesty finish, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
The best part? You can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings, like sour cream or salsa, making this dish your own. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal in under 40 minutes, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 medium onion, chopped
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1 packet taco seasoning
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1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
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1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
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1/2 cup sour cream (optional for serving)
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 7-10 minutes.
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Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, enchilada sauce, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
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In a baking dish, layer the beef mixture, followed by a layer of crushed tortilla chips, and then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
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Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
What Makes This Recipe Special?
The beauty of this Easy Mexican Casserole lies in its simplicity. Instead of complex ingredients or long cooking times, it brings together everyday pantry staples in a deliciously layered format. The combination of seasoned ground beef, black beans, and tangy enchilada sauce is a flavor-packed foundation for the casserole. On top, the crispy tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch, while the melty cheddar cheese ties everything together with its creamy goodness. The casserole is baked to perfection, creating a bubbly, golden crust that’s sure to make every bite irresistible.
What’s more, this casserole is incredibly versatile. You can experiment with various fillings, toppings, and even the type of cheese used to create your own perfect version. Whether you prefer spicier flavors or a milder dish, this recipe allows for easy adjustments to suit any taste.
How to Make the Most of Your Easy Mexican Casserole
While the Easy Mexican Casserole is an ideal choice for a quick dinner, it’s also a fantastic dish for meal prep, potlucks, and family gatherings. Preparing the casserole ahead of time and then baking it just before serving makes it an excellent option for busy families or anyone needing to feed a crowd without stress.
For an added layer of flavor, consider experimenting with additional ingredients such as green chilies, diced bell peppers, or corn. These ingredients complement the existing flavors and provide even more texture and depth to the casserole. You can also add a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on top just before serving to enhance the dish further.
Why It’s Perfect for Family Dinners
One of the main reasons the Easy Mexican Casserole is such a popular family meal is because it’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its hearty filling of protein and beans, along with the rich cheese topping, this dish ensures everyone leaves the table feeling full and content. The casserole also appeals to various tastes—whether you’re a fan of savory dishes, love a little spice, or enjoy a combination of both. The option to serve the casserole with various sides and toppings further increases its versatility, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.
Additionally, this recipe is a great way to introduce younger eaters to the flavors of Mexican cuisine without overwhelming them. The familiar ingredients and mild flavors make it approachable while still offering the exciting taste of taco-inspired dishes.
How to Customize Your Casserole
One of the best things about the Easy Mexican Casserole is its adaptability. Here are a few ideas for making this recipe your own:
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Swap the Meat: While ground beef is commonly used in this casserole, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like soy crumbles or beans for a meat-free version.
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Add More Veggies: To increase the nutritional value of your casserole, add some extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or corn. These veggies will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, making it even more satisfying.
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Spice It Up: If you prefer a spicier version of this casserole, you can add jalapeños, green chilies, or chili powder to the meat mixture. You can also top the casserole with some hot sauce or salsa for an extra kick.
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Cheese Variations: The casserole calls for shredded cheddar cheese, but you can experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Adding a spicy cheese can give the dish a nice, flavorful twist.
These customization ideas make this casserole a dish that can be tailored to your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. It’s a meal that everyone will love, and it can be easily adjusted for different tastes or dietary requirements.
The Perfect Side Dishes for Easy Mexican Casserole
While the casserole itself is hearty enough to stand alone, pairing it with a few side dishes can elevate the meal even further. Here are some fantastic options:
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Mexican Rice: The light, fluffy texture of Mexican rice complements the bold flavors of the casserole, making it a perfect side dish. You can cook the rice with a bit of tomato and garlic for extra flavor.
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Refried Beans: Smooth and creamy, refried beans are a classic side for any Mexican-inspired meal. They’re easy to make and provide a nice contrast to the crunch of the casserole.
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Guacamole and Salsa: No Mexican meal is complete without a side of fresh guacamole and salsa. These sides offer a cool, refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole and add a burst of flavor.
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Corn on the Cob: A simple side of grilled corn on the cob, sprinkled with chili powder and lime, pairs wonderfully with the casserole.
These sides enhance the meal, providing a balance of textures and flavors that perfectly complement the main dish.
Nutritional Information
The Easy Mexican Casserole is a filling, satisfying meal that provides a good amount of protein from the ground beef and beans. The beans also offer fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer. While this casserole is undeniably delicious, it’s also quite flexible in terms of nutritional value. By swapping out some ingredients or reducing cheese portions, you can make this dish healthier if desired.
If you’re concerned about the calorie count or the amount of cheese used, consider opting for a reduced-fat cheese, or serve it alongside a fresh green salad to help balance the richness of the casserole. It’s a versatile dish that allows you to make healthier choices without compromising on flavor.
Conclusion
The Easy Mexican Casserole is a must-try recipe that combines convenience with delicious flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this casserole fits the bill for a quick, tasty, and satisfying dish. With its cheesy, savory layers and the option to customize it to your liking, it’s a versatile meal that will become a favorite in your regular rotation. The Easy Mexican Casserole is not only a comfort food that satisfies cravings but also a dish that brings the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine into your home with ease.
Whether you enjoy it as is or make adjustments to suit your taste, you’re sure to love the richness and flavor of this dish. It’s a great way to add some spice to your dinner plans and keep things simple without sacrificing taste or quality. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become your new go-to for busy nights or any time you crave a delicious and hearty meal.