Beans Mexicana
A hearty Mexican-inspired bean dish combining seasoned ground beef, colorful peppers, baked beans, and corn, perfect for casual family meals or gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground beef (crumbled), chopped onions, and chopped green pepper until beef is browned and vegetables are tender.
- Add baked beans, cream-style corn, chopped green chilies, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for a few minutes or transfer to a medium oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of taco seasoning or cumin to the beef while cooking. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer more heat, add jalapeños or increase the amount of chopped green chilies. This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the beef and using additional beans instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Beans Mexicana with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Creamy Enchiladas or a fresh salad. You can also top it with sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado for added richness. This dish is great for gatherings, served alongside chips and salsa.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a covered dish or heat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans Mexicana contains roughly 297 calories, with 18g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 713mg per serving (31% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I use instead of baked beans?
If you don't have baked beans, you can use pinto beans or kidney beans. Just add a bit of molasses or brown sugar to replicate the sweetness of baked beans. This will keep the dish similar in flavor while using ingredients you may already have.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, Beans Mexicana freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat on the stove or in the oven until warmed through.
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).