Diana'S Mexican Casserole
A hearty Mexican casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and tomatoes, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Layer 6 tortillas on the bottom of the dish.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat.
- Spread the cooked meat mixture over the tortillas.
- Spread the Ranch Style beans (undrained) over the meat.
- Layer the sliced Velveeta cheese over the beans.
- Cover with the remaining 6 tortillas.
- In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and Ro-Tel tomatoes. Pour this mixture over the assembled casserole.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or other hot peppers to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in sour cream with the cream of chicken soup. Using corn tortillas instead of flour adds authentic flavor and texture, making it reminiscent of traditional Mexican dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors. Top with chopped cilantro, sour cream, or sliced avocado for added richness. It pairs beautifully with 7 Layer Mexican Casserole for a festive meal or potluck. Enjoy with tortilla chips for a fun crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Diana'S Mexican Casserole contains roughly 336 calories, with 18g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1940mg per serving (84% 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. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming directly from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute, try using shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. These cheeses melt well and will add a different flavor profile. You can also mix in cream cheese for a creamier texture.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).