Ann'S Hit Or Miss Casserole
A hearty layered casserole combining flavorful meatballs, tortillas, salsa, and cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings with bold Mexican-inspired tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make meatballs from the hamburger mixed with eggs, then brown and drain the grease away.
- Layer half of the torn small flour tortillas in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Add half of the diced green peppers, diced onions, cooked meatballs, and 1 quart of salsa over the first layer.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining tortillas, peppers, onions, meatballs, and salsa.
- Top the casserole with shredded hot pepper cheese.
- Bake for 1 hour at 325°F.
- Serve topped with sour cream and black olives.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some cumin or garlic powder with the hamburger before forming meatballs. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version. If you prefer extra heat, try adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier salsa. This casserole is versatile and can easily adapt to different tastes, similar to other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is great on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some Mexican rice. For an extra touch, serve it with additional toppings like sliced black olives, fresh cilantro, or avocado. It makes for a hearty meal and can even be enjoyed with sides from other dishes like Bean Taco or Fideo Pronto.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until warm, being cautious not to overheat and dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ann'S Hit Or Miss Casserole contains roughly 764 calories, with 24g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1555mg per serving (68% 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 assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be good substitutes for ground beef, offering a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a meat substitute, such as crumbled tempeh or tofu, which will also absorb the flavors well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add diced jalapeños or use a hotter salsa. Additionally, incorporating chili powder or cayenne pepper into the meat mixture will give it a nice kick. Adjust according to your spice preference!
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).