Name: Easy Mexican Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1/2-1 pound ground beef; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce; 1 cup salsa; 1 can (15 oz.) Great Northern Beans (drained); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Crushed corn chips (to taste)

If you’re in the mood for something warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Easy Mexican Casserole. This delightful dish brings together the rich, savory flavors of Mexico with the comforting familiarity of a casserole, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be ready to dig into this deliciously cheesy and hearty casserole in no time!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

The beauty of Easy Mexican Casserole lies not only in its delightful flavors but also in its simplicity and versatility. This dish is a one-pot wonder that can be customized to suit your taste, making it a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy meal prep option, this casserole checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and cheese – what’s not to love?

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up this Easy Mexican Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1/2-1 pound ground beef
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
1 cup salsa
1 (15 oz.) can Great Northern Beans, drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Crushed corn chips to taste

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools handy:

Large skillet: For browning the ground beef and mixing the ingredients.
9×13 inch baking dish: To bake the casserole evenly.
Spatula: For stirring and serving.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.

Build Easy Mexican Casserole Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly and golden.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Season Your Beef

Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Then, sprinkle in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder. Stir to combine, allowing the spices to coat the meat evenly.

Step 4: Add the Sauces and Beans

Next, pour in the tomato sauce and salsa, stirring well to combine all the flavors. Add the drained Great Northern beans and mix gently until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and then top it with shredded cheddar cheese. If you love a little crunch, sprinkle crushed corn chips on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The edges should be slightly golden, indicating it’s ready to come out.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to scoop. Serve it warm, and enjoy the deliciousness!

Fit It to Your Goals

This Easy Mexican Casserole is incredibly versatile, and you can easily adapt it to fit your dietary preferences:

Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or quinoa for a meatless option.
Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Lower the calories: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for low-fat cheese.
Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for a nutritional boost.

Things That Go Wrong

Even the best cooks encounter hiccups in the kitchen. Here are a few things that can go wrong when making Easy Mexican Casserole, along with tips to avoid them:

Too watery: If your mixture is too watery, let it simmer a little longer before baking. This will help thicken it up.
Burnt edges: If you notice the edges browning too quickly, cover the casserole with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
Uneven cooking: Make sure to spread the beef mixture evenly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking.
Too dry: If you accidentally overbake it, consider adding a little salsa or sour cream on top when serving to add moisture.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This Easy Mexican Casserole is perfect for meal prep and leftovers! Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your casserole:

Storing: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Great Northern beans with black beans, pinto beans, or even kidney beans, depending on your preference.

Is this casserole kid-friendly?

Yes! This Easy Mexican Casserole is a hit with kids. The cheesy topping and flavorful ingredients make it a fun and tasty meal for the whole family.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!

What should I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, guacamole, or some fresh tortilla chips for extra crunch. You can also serve it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.

That’s a Wrap

With its hearty ingredients and satisfying flavors, this Easy Mexican Casserole is destined to become a staple in your home. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that brings comfort and joy to your table!