Black-Eyed Pea Of Texas Casserole
A hearty Texan casserole combining seasoned ground beef, cheesy layers, and spicy black-eyed peas, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground round ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped ⓘ
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1 can jalapeno black-eyed peas ⓘ
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup ⓘ
- 1 can red enchilada sauce ⓘ
- 1 can cream of chicken soup ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon Tabasco or hot sauce ⓘ
- 15 corn tortillas, cut into 1/2 inch strips
Instructions
- Saute ground round, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the meat is cooked and onions are tender. Drain off excess fat.
- Use a 9 x 13 inch rectangular dish. Place a layer of the meat mixture on the bottom.
- Lay corn tortilla strips over the meat layer.
- Add another layer of the remaining meat mixture on top of the tortillas.
- Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes until hot and bubbly. If using light cheese, add it 5 minutes before baking ends.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Ensure to drain the black-eyed peas and Rotel tomatoes well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some cornbread on the side. For a complete meal, serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top. It also makes a great addition to any potluck or casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black-Eyed Pea Of Texas Casserole contains roughly 979 calories, with 66g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (132% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1190mg per serving (52% 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?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze Black-Eyed Pea Of Texas Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake according to the original instructions.
What can I serve with this casserole?
For a balanced meal, consider serving it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You could also add some tortilla chips on the side for extra crunch. If you're looking for more inspiration, browse more Mexican recipes that complement this dish.
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).