Chili Bean Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining chili, beans, and crunchy corn chips, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, it offers bold flavors and satisfying textures that appeal to chili lovers and comfort food fans alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread butter in a 3-quart baking dish.
- Line the dish with corn chips.
- In a saucepan, combine the chili and pinto beans.
- Heat the chili and beans mixture until warmed through.
- Alternate layers of chili beans, chopped onions, chopped peppers, corn chips, and shredded cheese in the dish.
- Put a layer of cheese last on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the chopped onions and bell peppers in a little olive oil before layering them in the casserole. You can substitute black beans or kidney beans for pinto beans, and feel free to use any type of cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick. For a vegetarian version, ensure the chili is meat-free. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or game day.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili bean casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a crisp salad. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside chips and guacamole or as part of a festive spread, including dishes like Five Layer Mexican Dip or Easy Chile Rellenos.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated evenly. This ensures the cheese remains melty and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Bean Casserole contains roughly 448 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 719mg 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the layers in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s still cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of corn chips?
If you prefer, you can substitute corn chips with tortilla chips or even crushed nacho-flavored chips for added flavor. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortilla chips or serve the casserole over rice or quinoa.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this chili bean casserole can be frozen. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated 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).