Acapulco Casserole
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese layered with tortillas, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and drain any excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, chopped celery, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Cook and stir for 3 minutes.
- Stir in the red kidney beans, cream-style corn, and tomato sauce.
- In a greased 2-quart casserole, place a layer of tortillas on the bottom.
- Top the tortillas with a layer of the sauce mixture.
- Repeat the layers until the sauce is used up, ending with a layer of tortillas on top.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for about 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked shredded chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian version, use black beans and replace the meat with more vegetables or lentils. Ensure the tortillas are soft to layer easily, or microwave them briefly before assembling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Acapulco Casserole with a fresh green salad or guacamole for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like Beef 'N Bean Enchiladas or a side of refried beans. Garnish with sour cream and chopped cilantro for added flavor. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be a star at your next Mexican Feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals, but the oven method helps maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Acapulco Casserole contains roughly 583 calories, with 24g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2125mg per serving (92% 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 up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes for ground beef in this recipe. You can also opt for plant-based meat alternatives if you're looking for a vegetarian option. Additionally, using lentils or a mix of beans can create a hearty and satisfying dish while keeping it meat-free.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This is a great way to have a quick meal ready for busy nights.
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).