Chili Beef And Corn Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender beef, flavorful taco spices, corn, and rice, topped with fresh tomatoes and crunchy chips—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, blend 1 cup beef broth, tomato paste, and taco seasoning mix; set aside.
- In a saucepan over high heat, combine remaining beef broth and enough water to make 1 3/4 cups liquid; bring to a boil.
- Add rice and cook according to package directions.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion until beef is browned and onion is tender.
- Drain excess fat and stir in the prepared beef broth mixture.
- Add drained corn and cooked rice; mix well.
- Transfer mixture to a casserole dish, top with diced fresh tomato and crushed corn chips.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through and toppings are crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing garlic or bell peppers along with the onion. If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, a mix of cumin, paprika, and chili powder can work as a substitute. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or a vegetarian alternative for a lighter version. This dish is great for meal prep; make a double batch and freeze half for a quick weeknight dinner.
Serving Suggestions
This chili beef and corn casserole pairs beautifully with a side of mixed greens or a simple garden salad for a fresh contrast. You can also serve it with sour cream and guacamole for extra creaminess. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside warm tortillas or as a filling for tacos in a shell. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Beef And Corn Casserole contains roughly 1690 calories, with 25g protein, 218g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just assemble it without baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth for a different flavor. If you're looking to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium broth. Keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the overall taste of the dish.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. Additionally, serve it with hot sauce or spicy salsa on the side for those who prefer an extra kick. Consider pairing it with Mexican recipes that have a spicy flair.
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).