Beef Picante Casserole
A hearty beef casserole layered with flavorful spices, tender tortillas, and creamy sour cream, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons picante sauce ⓘ
- 12 corn tortillas ⓘ
- 2 pounds beef ⓘ
- 1 onion
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons cumin ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon chili powder ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder ⓘ
- 1/4 cup picante sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 cup butter ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons flour ⓘ
- 1/2 cup milk ⓘ
- 16 ounces sour cream ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large shallow bowl, mix water and picante sauce.
- Soak the tortillas in the mixture for 5 minutes and then drain.
- Cook the beef and onion until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Stir salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and picante sauce into the meat mixture and simmer for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using ground beef that is higher in fat content. You can also substitute turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want to add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños into the beef mixture. To save time, use pre-made picante sauce instead of making your own. This dish is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Corn Bread Tamale Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef Picante Casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color. It pairs well with a simple side salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal. For a festive touch, serve with tortilla chips and guacamole. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Picante Casserole contains roughly 1126 calories, with 24g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (213% of the Daily Value), iron (209% of the Daily Value), and calcium (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1795mg per serving (78% 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 assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze Beef Picante Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking it in the oven.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream, Greek yogurt works well and adds a similar creaminess with a bit of tang. You can also use a dairy-free sour cream alternative if you're avoiding dairy. Just ensure the consistency matches that of regular sour cream.
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).