World Mexican Casserole

World Mexican Casserole Recipe - Authentic Flavors Straight from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

This World Mexican Casserole recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Packed with flavorful ingredients like ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and cheese, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

History

The origins of this Mexican casserole recipe are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional Mexican cuisine. The combination of ingredients like ground beef, beans, and cheese is a classic in Mexican cooking, and this casserole puts a unique twist on those flavors.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) ground beef, browned and drained
2 packages Lawry's taco seasoning (follow directions on package)
1 large onion or
2 bunches green onions
1 can pinto beans, drained
1 can Ro-tel tomatoes
1 can cream of chicken soup
10 corn tortillas (up to 12)
1 lb (454 g) monterey jack cheese, grated
4 oz (113 g) cheddar cheese, grated

How to prepare

In a small bowl, combine Cheddar Cheese and a handful of Monterey jack Cheese for the top.
In another bowl, mix the remaining Monterey jack Cheese and the onions.
In a separate bowl, combine beans and meat. In a small bowl, mix tomatoes and soup.
Line a 13X9" pan with tortillas. Layer the meat, Cheese, and onions, then finish with corn tortillas.
Spread the soup and tomatoes over the top and sprinkle with cheeses.
Cover the pan with foil and bake at 375°F (191°C) for 45 minutes. Allow it to stand for about 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add in some diced bell peppers or jalapenos for an extra kick of flavor.
Use different types of cheese, like pepper jack or queso fresco, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the ground beef after browning to remove excess fat.

- Layering the ingredients in the casserole dish ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.

- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a side of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the ingredients in the casserole dish ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. Make sure to evenly distribute the meat, beans, cheese, and tomatoes for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, use different types of beans, or add in extra veggies like bell peppers or corn.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. This is a great option for busy weeknights or when you are entertaining guests.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This World Mexican Casserole pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, a green salad, or some roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this World Mexican Casserole contains around 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

This World Mexican Casserole is a carb-heavy dish, with tortillas, beans, and tomatoes all contributing to the carbohydrate content. Each serving contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

With ingredients like ground beef and cheese, this casserole is rich in fats. Each serving contains around 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

The ground beef and beans in this casserole provide a good amount of protein, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

This casserole is a good source of calcium, thanks to the cheese. It also contains vitamins and minerals from the onions, tomatoes, and beans.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (tortillas), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Overall, this World Mexican Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a great option for a filling meal.

Summary

This World Mexican Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Packed with flavorful ingredients and easy to customize, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for World Mexican Casserole. It was a warm summer day, and I was attending a potluck with some friends from my church. As usual, I had brought along my famous lasagna, but this time I wanted to try something new.

As I wandered around the buffet table, my eyes fell upon a dish that looked absolutely delectable. It was a colorful casserole with layers of tortilla chips, spicy ground beef, gooey cheese, and a variety of fresh veggies. I couldn't resist taking a small portion to try, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite.

I immediately approached the woman who had brought the casserole and begged her for the recipe. She chuckled and agreed to share it with me, explaining that it was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. I scribbled down the ingredients and instructions on a napkin, feeling like I had just struck gold.

When I got home, I couldn't wait to recreate the dish for my family. I gathered all the necessary ingredients and got to work in the kitchen, my mouth watering in anticipation. As the casserole baked in the oven, the tantalizing aroma filled the air, making it hard for me to wait for it to be done.

Finally, the timer went off, and I pulled the casserole out of the oven. It looked just as beautiful as the one I had tried at the potluck, and I couldn't wait to dig in. My family gathered around the table, eager to taste my latest culinary creation.

With the first bite, they were hooked. The flavors were bold and savory, with just the right amount of spice. The tortilla chips added a satisfying crunch, while the melted cheese tied everything together perfectly. My family couldn't stop raving about how delicious it was, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had discovered such a fantastic recipe.

From that day on, World Mexican Casserole became a staple in our household. Whenever we had guests over, I would whip up a batch of the casserole, knowing that it would be a hit every time. I even shared the recipe with some of my closest friends, who were equally impressed by its deliciousness.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. I've experimented with different types of cheese, swapped out ground beef for chicken or beans, and even added some extra veggies for a healthier twist. But no matter how I change it up, the casserole always manages to bring a smile to everyone's face.

As I look back on that fateful day at the potluck, I can't help but feel grateful for stumbling upon such a wonderful recipe. It has brought my family and friends together time and time again, creating lasting memories and filling our bellies with pure joy. And to think, it all started with a simple moment of curiosity and a napkin scribbled with ingredients. Who knew that a World Mexican Casserole could have such a profound impact on my life?