Mexican Casserole

Mexican Casserole Recipe - Ground Beef, Enchilada Sauce, and Cheddar Cheese

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Mexican Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of ground beef, chilies, enchilada sauce, and cheese layered between tortillas. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, as it is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

History

Mexican Casserole has its roots in traditional Mexican cuisine, where layers of ingredients are stacked and baked to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Over the years, this recipe has been adapted and modified to suit different tastes and preferences, making it a versatile and customizable meal option.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) ground beef
2 cans cream of mushroom soup
0.5 cup water
2 small cans green chilies
1 can hot enchilada sauce
1 white onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
dash of garlic salt
1 lb (454 g) grated cheddar cheese
1 lb (454 g) tortillas, quartered

How to prepare

Brown the meat with all the ingredients except for the cheese and tortillas.
Layer the meat, cheese, and tortillas in a large dish or pan, starting with the meat at the bottom.
Cook at 350°F (177°C) for 30 to 45 minutes.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version of this dish.
Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Add a layer of refried beans or rice for extra texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly before layering it in the casserole dish to ensure that it cooks evenly.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes.

- For a spicier version, use hot enchilada sauce and add jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

- To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mexican Casserole with a side of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the ingredients in the casserole dish ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and texture. Make sure to evenly distribute the meat, cheese, and tortillas to create a well-balanced dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe by using your favorite ingredients. You can swap out the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese, or add different types of chilies for a unique flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare Mexican Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, or diced tomatoes before serving to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Pairing Recommendations

Mexican Casserole pairs well with a side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Mexican Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican Casserole contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican Casserole contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican Casserole is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (tortillas).

Summary

Mexican Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Mexican Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. With layers of ground beef, chilies, enchilada sauce, and cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a rainy afternoon and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend Maria. As I turned the pages, my eyes landed on a page that was splattered with tomato sauce and covered in handwritten notes. The title at the top read "Mexican Casserole."

I had never heard of Mexican Casserole before, but the ingredients listed sounded absolutely delicious. Ground beef, black beans, corn, salsa, cheese – it was like a symphony of flavors all coming together in one dish. I knew I had to make it.

Maria had learned this recipe from her grandmother, who had brought it over from Mexico many years ago. It was a family favorite and had been passed down through the generations. I felt honored that Maria had shared it with me, and I couldn't wait to try it out for myself.

I gathered all the ingredients and got to work in the kitchen. As I browned the ground beef and mixed in the spices, the aroma that filled the air was intoxicating. I could already tell that this dish was going to be something special.

Once everything was assembled in the baking dish, I popped it in the oven and waited anxiously for it to finish cooking. The smell that wafted out of the oven as I opened the door was enough to make my mouth water. I couldn't wait to dig in.

When I finally took my first bite of the Mexican Casserole, I was in heaven. The flavors were bold and vibrant, each bite bursting with a mix of savory and spicy goodness. The cheese on top had melted into a gooey, golden crust that added the perfect finishing touch.

From that moment on, Mexican Casserole became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any time I wanted a delicious and comforting meal. It always received rave reviews, with people begging me for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and additions to the original recipe. I've added some diced jalapenos for an extra kick, swapped out the ground beef for shredded chicken, and experimented with different types of cheeses. Each variation has been delicious in its own way, but the original recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.

I have shared the recipe for Mexican Casserole with many friends and family members, and it has become a favorite among them as well. It brings me joy to know that something as simple as a recipe can bring people together and create lasting memories.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that rainy afternoon when I first discovered the recipe for Mexican Casserole, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey it has taken me on. It has allowed me to connect with my heritage, share my love of cooking with others, and create delicious meals that bring joy to all who taste them.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and flavorful dish to feed your loved ones, look no further than Mexican Casserole. It may just become a favorite in your household as well.