Mexi-Casserole
A hearty and cheesy Mexi-Casserole layered with beans, meats, and melted cheeses, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck, velveeta cheese, and sour cream, then set aside.
- Mix milk, Velveeta cheese, and chili powder; set aside.
- Start with a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex pan.
- Layer pinto beans, corn chips, refried beans, and corn chips in the pan.
- Mix together the cream cheese and sour cream with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and spread on top to make the next layer.
- Pour the meat mixture you set aside over this layer.
- Melt the milk and Velveeta cheese mixture in the microwave and pour over the top.
- Add the mozzarella cheese as the last layer.
- Place the casserole in a 350°F oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the ground chuck to make it lighter. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy twist. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or substitute some of the chili powder with cayenne. This Mexi-Casserole is versatile, so feel free to incorporate leftover vegetables or beans from other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexi-Casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or guacamole on the side. For a fun twist, serve it with tortilla chips for crunch or a dollop of sour cream on top. It also makes for a great potluck dish, alongside other favorites like Nacho Dabs or Tamale-Chili Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes until warmed and the cheese is bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexi-Casserole contains roughly 39 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, assemble it, and then cover it tightly with foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack can all work well in this casserole. Just ensure you keep some meltable cheese like mozzarella for that gooey texture on top.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ground chuck and substitute with more beans or vegetables. You can use black beans or add sautéed bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty, meatless option, making it perfect for vegetarian recipes.
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).