Chili Mexican Casserole
A hearty Mexican casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, chili, cheese, and tortillas, baked to perfection—great for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start with buttered corn tortillas.
- Layer tortillas with cooked hamburger, chili with beans, and cheese.
- Repeat the layering process.
- Pour tomato sauce on top and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for at least 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the layers. If you’re out of corn tortillas, flour tortillas can work as a substitute. Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar for enhanced flavor. To save time, pre-cook the hamburger and use canned chili with extra beans for a heartier dish. This recipe also pairs nicely with Peachy Pork Picante for an exciting flavor combination.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chili Mexican Casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or cornbread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top. You can also explore more Mexican recipes to complement this dish for a themed dinner night.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. If freezing, it’s best to do so before baking; thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as directed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Mexican Casserole contains roughly 181 calories, with 9g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), protein (17% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 474mg per serving (21% 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 assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of hamburger meat?
Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you want a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using black beans or lentils as a protein source, adding in chopped vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for additional texture and flavor.
Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, corn, or diced zucchini make excellent additions. Just sauté the vegetables briefly before layering them in the casserole to enhance their flavor and ensure they cook through during baking.
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).