Mexicale Casserole
A hearty Mexican casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, corn, and a flavorful cornmeal topping, perfect for a family dinner or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare cornmeal mix according to package directions.
- Grease a shallow 2-quart baking dish.
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet and drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning, chopped tomatoes, and corn.
- Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the prepared cornmeal mix over the beef mixture.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a lean substitute for ground beef. You can also incorporate black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. For a more vibrant dish, include chopped bell peppers or onions in the skillet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexicale Casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with a side of Avocado Tostado Salad or tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Rice Sabrosa or a light green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicale Casserole contains roughly 185 calories, with 7g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1936mg 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 prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator, and when ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for taco seasoning?
If you don't have taco seasoning on hand, you can create your own blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust the spices to your taste preference. This homemade seasoning will enhance the flavor of the beef mixture just as effectively as store-bought seasoning.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or use plant-based meat alternatives. You can also add extra beans for protein, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that still delivers on flavor.
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).