A Touch Of Mexico Casserole
A flavorful Mexican-inspired casserole packed with seasoned ground beef, corn, beans, olives, and cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef ⓘ
- 3/4 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped celery ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder ⓘ
- 1 (12 oz) can whole kernel corn ⓘ
- 1 can red kidney beans, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 cup sliced ripe olives ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 cup coarsely crushed corn chips ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped celery in a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover and microwave at high for 7 minutes, or until the meat is done, stirring several times and draining excess liquid.
- Stir in the canned corn, drained kidney beans, sliced olives, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
- Cover and microwave at high for 5 to 6 minutes, turning the dish a half turn after 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese and coarsely crushed corn chips.
- Microwave at 70% power for 1 minute, or until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra chili powder. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use black beans instead of kidney beans for a different flavor profile. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack for a unique twist, or browse more Mexican recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some warm tortillas. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top can elevate the flavors. For a complete meal, serve it alongside rice or corn on the cob. It's also a delightful dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven at 350°F until hot. This casserole also freezes well; just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of A Touch Of Mexico Casserole contains roughly 643 calories, with 19g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2158mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply prepare it up to the point of microwaving, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, follow the microwave instructions, adding a couple of extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for ground beef, offering a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. For a vegetarian alternative, try using crumbled tofu or a meat substitute made from soy or pea protein, which can provide a similar texture.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free corn chips and ensuring that your canned goods, like tomato sauce and beans, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without worrying about gluten content.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).