Southwestern Beef Casserole

Southwestern Beef Casserole Recipe - American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Southwestern Beef Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of ground beef, refried beans, cheese, and spices. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

The origins of Southwestern Beef Casserole can be traced back to the Southwestern region of the United States, where Mexican and American culinary influences come together to create flavorful and satisfying dishes. This casserole is a popular comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) ground beef
1 can (15 oz (425 g)) refried beans
2 cans (2.25 oz (64 g)) sliced ripe olives
1 large onion, diced
1 can (8 oz (227 g)) diced green chiles
0.25 lb (113 g) grated monterey jack cheese
0.25 lb (113 g) grated cheddar cheese
1 tbsp red chili powder
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 can (10 oz (283 g)) diced Ro-Tel tomatoes with chiles
0.25 cup minced cilantro
2 cups crushed tortilla chips
1 clove minced garlic
1 cup water

How to prepare

Cook the ground beef until it is lightly browned.
Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are limp.
Add the green chiles, chili powder, cumin, cilantro, and salt and pepper to taste.
Add water and Ro-Tel tomatoes or stewed tomatoes. Remove from heat.
Place one-third of the crushed tortilla chips in a casserole dish, followed by one-third of the refried beans, ground beef mixture, and cheese mixture.
Continue layering until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese.
Bake, uncovered, at 375°F (191°C) for 45 minutes.
Serves 6.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version of this casserole.
Add corn, black beans, or bell peppers to the casserole for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding the other ingredients to ensure a rich and flavorful base for the casserole.

- Layering the ingredients in the casserole dish allows for even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the dish.

- Feel free to customize the spices and seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add more chili powder for a spicier dish or omit the green chiles for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southwestern Beef Casserole with a side of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also top it with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the ingredients in the casserole dish allows for even cooking and melding of flavors. Make sure to evenly distribute the ingredients to ensure a delicious end result.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your dietary preferences and ingredient availability. You can use different types of beans, vegetables, and spices to create a unique variation of this casserole.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Serve it in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Southwestern Beef Casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad, Mexican rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with cornbread or tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Southwestern Beef Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Southwestern Beef Casserole contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Southwestern Beef Casserole contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Southwestern Beef Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Southwestern Beef Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (tortilla chips). It may also contain soy (refried beans).

Summary

Southwestern Beef Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Southwestern Beef Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. With layers of ground beef, refried beans, cheese, and spices, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Southwestern Beef Casserole. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria at her home in New Mexico. Maria was a fantastic cook and always had the most delicious dishes ready for her guests. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the mouthwatering aroma of spices and beef cooking together in perfect harmony.

Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, then led me over to her kitchen table where she had laid out all the ingredients for the Southwestern Beef Casserole. The recipe card was stained and worn, a clear sign that it had been used many times before. Maria explained that the recipe had been passed down to her from her grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend who lived on a ranch in Texas.

I was intrigued by the history behind the recipe and eager to learn how to make it myself. Maria patiently walked me through each step, from browning the ground beef with onions and garlic to seasoning it with a blend of cumin, chili powder, and paprika. She then added in a can of diced tomatoes and black beans, along with some corn kernels for a touch of sweetness.

As the casserole simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, Maria told me stories of her grandmother and the ranch in Texas where she spent her childhood summers. She spoke of the long days spent riding horses and tending to the cattle, and the simple but delicious meals that were shared around the table each evening.

I listened intently, soaking up every detail of the recipe and the memories that came along with it. By the time the casserole was ready to be served, I felt like I had been transported back in time to that ranch in Texas, surrounded by the sounds and smells of a bygone era.

As Maria and I sat down to enjoy the Southwestern Beef Casserole together, I couldn't help but marvel at the way food has the power to connect us to our past and to the people who have shaped us into who we are today. I made a mental note to cherish this recipe and pass it down to future generations, just as Maria had done for me.

And so, as I sit here now in my own kitchen, preparing the Southwestern Beef Casserole for my family, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the friends and family who have shared their recipes and stories with me over the years. Each dish is a reminder of the love and care that goes into preparing a meal, and the memories that are created around the table.

As I take a bite of the casserole, savoring the flavors of the beef, beans, and spices, I am reminded once again of that hot summer day in New Mexico, and the moment when I first laid eyes on this wonderful recipe. It may have come from a faraway ranch in Texas, but it has found a home in my heart and my kitchen, where it will continue to be shared and enjoyed for years to come.