Campbell'S Mexican Casserole
A hearty Mexican-inspired casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, green chiles, and cheesy layers, perfect for family dinners and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown hamburger meat with chopped onion in a large skillet.
- Drain excess fat and add diced green chili peppers, taco sauce, and tomato sauce to the skillet.
- Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
- In a saucepan, heat cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk over low heat.
- Add the heated soup mixture to the meat and sauce mixture.
- Cut corn tortillas into strips.
- Layer tortillas, meat and sauce mixture, and soups in a buttered shallow casserole dish.
- Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, ending with grated cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned ground beef or adding spices like cumin and chili powder to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use black beans for a vegetarian version. If you want a spicier kick, add jalapeños or use a spicier taco sauce. Using fresh corn tortillas will enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican casserole pairs beautifully with Arroz Rojo (Red Rice) and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side for an extra flavor boost. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, serving up to 8 people generously.
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 until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Campbell'S Mexican Casserole contains roughly 335 calories, with 9g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1112mg per serving (48% 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, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze the Mexican casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its melting properties and flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack for a milder taste. For a more gourmet twist, consider a blend of Mexican cheeses or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
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).