Mexicala
A hearty casserole blending savory ground beef, creamy corn, and cheesy noodles, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold flavors and a touch of crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put oil in a frypan and heat.
- Brown the ground beef in the frypan.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper; cook and stir for about 2 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked mixture to a casserole dish.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the dish: cream-style corn, tomato soup, salt, pepper, water, shredded Cheddar cheese, and Chinese noodles.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of chili powder or cumin to the beef while browning. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a creamier texture, use cream corn with added cheese. For a vegetarian twist, replace the beef with black beans or lentils. This dish is versatile and can easily adapt to your pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mexicala hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of rice or a simple green salad. For an entertaining twist, offer it alongside Dee'S Nacho Cheese Dip for dipping. This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings and can easily feed a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. For best results, cover with a damp paper towel in the microwave to keep the dish moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicala contains roughly 730 calories, with 12g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1410mg per serving (61% 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 Mexicala in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Mexicala a day ahead. Assemble the dish without baking and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious.
What can I serve with Mexicala?
Mexicala pairs well with chips and salsa or a refreshing avocado salad. You might also consider serving it with cornbread for a comforting meal. For a fun variation, try serving it alongside Quick Beef And Bean Tacos for a taco night theme.
Can I freeze Mexicala?
Yes, you can freeze Mexicala! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated 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).