Name: 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 30 ounces black beans, canned (drained); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt; 12 ounces salsa (no added sugar); 2 cups whole-grain tortilla chips (broken); 1 cup Mexican style cheese (shredded, reduced-fat); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (non-fat (optional, for serving as sour cream))

Are you ready for a meal that’s delicious, satisfying, and can be prepped in just five minutes? Say hello to the 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole! This dish is packed with flavor, easy to assemble, and perfect for busy nights when you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. With its layers of hearty black beans, crispy tortilla chips, and melty cheese, this casserole is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation. Let’s dive right in and discover why this recipe is a must-try!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole is not only quick to prepare, but it also ticks all the boxes for a satisfying meal. With protein-packed black beans, flavorful spices, and the crunch of tortilla chips, it offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a cozy gathering with friends, this casserole will impress everyone at the table.

Gather These Ingredients

To make your 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

30 ounces black beans, canned, drained
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
12 ounces salsa, no added sugar
2 cups whole-grain tortilla chips, broken
1 cup Mexican style cheese, shredded, reduced-fat
1/2 cup Greek yogurt, non-fat (optional, for serving as sour cream)

Appliances & Accessories

Before you get started, make sure you have the following appliances and accessories on hand:

Large mixing bowl – for combining ingredients.
9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for baking your casserole.
Measuring spoons – for accurate measurement of spices.
Oven – to bake the casserole until bubbly and golden.
Spatula – for mixing and serving.

Cook 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole Like This

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and becomes perfectly golden.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained black beans, chili powder, cumin, black pepper, kosher or sea salt, and salsa. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In your baking dish, start by adding a layer of the bean mixture. Then, sprinkle half of the broken tortilla chips over the top. Follow with a layer of shredded Mexican cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining bean mixture, tortilla chips, and cheese.

Step 4: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly crispy.

Step 5: Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or non-fat sour cream if desired. Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite!

Customize for Your Needs

The beauty of the 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole lies in its versatility. Here are some ways to customize it to suit your tastes:

Add cooked chicken or ground turkey for extra protein.
Incorporate vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
Swap out the black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for varied flavor.
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.

Steer Clear of These

While the 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole is designed to be simple and wholesome, here are a few things to avoid to ensure the best results:

Don’t skip draining the black beans; excess liquid can make the casserole soggy.
Avoid using overly salty salsa, as it can overpower the other flavors.
Stay away from stale tortilla chips, as they won’t hold up well during baking.
Don’t rush the baking time; allowing the cheese to melt properly is key to flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead & Storage

The 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals. Here’s how to store it:

You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time as it may take a bit longer if it’s coming straight from the fridge. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Common Qs About 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole

Can I freeze the Tex-Mex casserole?

Yes! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

To make the 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free tortilla chips. All other ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

This casserole is already vegetarian as it is! It’s packed with beans, which provide plenty of protein, making it a filling option for vegetarians.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, guacamole, or a side of Spanish rice for an extra hearty meal.

Wrap-Up

There you have it—the 5-Minute Prep Tex-Mex Casserole that’s as quick to make as it is delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get cooking today! You won’t regret it! Enjoy every bite of this delightful and easy casserole!