Black "Eyes Of Texas" Casserole
Black 'Eyes Of Texas' Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the bold tastes of Tex-Mex into your home. Featuring a delightful combination of jalapeno black-eyed peas, savory ground beef, and a medley of creamy soups, it's perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 (15 1/2 oz.) can jalapeno black-eyed peas, drained
- 1 1/2 lb. lean ground beef ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped ⓘ
- 1 (10 oz.) can tomatoes with green chilies ⓘ
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (undiluted) ⓘ
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (undiluted) ⓘ
- 1 (10 oz.) can enchilada sauce ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. liquid hot pepper seasoning ⓘ
- 1 1/4 doz. corn tortillas, cut up ⓘ
- 2 c. sharp Cheddar cheese, grated ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute ground beef, onion, and garlic until lightly browned, stirring to crumble the meat.
- Stir in remaining ingredients except tortillas and cheese.
- Alternately layer the mixture of meat and tortillas, beginning and ending with meat mixture, in a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Sprinkle with cheese and bake at 350° for 35 minutes or until bubbly.
- Freezes well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use black beans or pinto beans instead of black-eyed peas if preferred. To add more flavor, consider mixing in some diced bell peppers or corn. Adjust the heat by varying the amount of liquid hot pepper seasoning or using a milder enchilada sauce. This dish is reminiscent of Beef Enchilada Casserole, so feel free to experiment!
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some fresh guacamole for a complete meal. Consider serving with tortilla chips on the side for added crunch. For a fun twist, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This dish complements Mexican recipes wonderfully and can be enjoyed alongside Taquitos or King Ranch Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave single servings, but be sure to cover to maintain moisture. This casserole also freezes well; wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black "Eyes Of Texas" Casserole contains roughly 769 calories, with 28g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1474mg per serving (64% 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. Assemble all the layers and cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, simply remove the cover and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for serving guests.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you need a substitute for cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of vegetable soup or make a homemade version using milk, flour, and seasoning. For a healthier alternative, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of broth to achieve a creamy texture.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. It typically takes around 35 minutes at 350°F, but keep an eye on it. If the edges begin to brown too much, you can cover the dish with foil to prevent burning.
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).