Hamburger And Chili Pepper Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and green chilies, perfect for comforting family dinners and those who enjoy spicy, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger meat and diced onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat; add salt, pepper, chili powder, green chilies, and the can of cream of chicken or mushroom soup.
- Mix well until combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in a moderate oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ground beef can save you some preparation. You can also substitute the cream of chicken or mushroom soup with a homemade version for a fresher taste. Pair this dish with a side of Quick And Delicious Potatoes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor. It pairs nicely with a simple salad, like a Chicken Spinach Salad, or crusty bread for a hearty meal. For a fun twist, offer sour cream and guacamole on the side to enhance the dish's flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger And Chili Pepper Casserole contains roughly 498 calories, with 27g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (66% of the Daily Value), calcium (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. 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 use ground turkey instead of hamburger meat?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for hamburger meat in this casserole. It will provide a leaner option while still maintaining the dish's flavor. Just be sure to brown it well before combining with the other ingredients to enhance its taste.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans and lentils or your favorite meat substitute. Ensure to add extra seasoning to compensate for the lack of meat. You can also use vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken or mushroom soup for a fully vegetarian option.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance by following the recipe up to the baking step. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it heats 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).