Mexicali Crock-Pot Pie
A hearty, layered crock-pot pie with flavorful ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef; drain. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is soft and clear.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine enchilada sauce and tomato sauce in a bowl; drain corn and add to sauces.
- Wipe inside of crock-pot with oil. Place 1 tortilla in the bottom of the crock-pot.
- Make 4 layers, using 1/4 of each ingredient in this order: ground beef mixture, chili beans, corn, sauces, cheese, and tortilla.
- End with a cheese topping.
- Cover crock-pot and cook on low for 5 to 7 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground turkey. If you want a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. You can also substitute the corn tortillas with flour tortillas if preferred. To save time, use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for a chunkier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexicali Crock-Pot Pie with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added freshness. It pairs well with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad. For a full meal experience, consider serving it alongside Salsa Stuffed Peppers for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicali Crock-Pot Pie contains roughly 1532 calories, with 58g protein, 255g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (474% of the Daily Value), protein (115% of the Daily Value), and iron (74% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1172mg per serving (51% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or by using a variety of beans such as black beans and kidney beans. You may also want to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
What can I serve with Mexicali Crock-Pot Pie?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with tortilla chips and guacamole or a refreshing side salad. Additionally, pairing it with a light soup, like a simple tomato or tortilla soup, can create a well-rounded dining experience.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just ensure to cool the dish completely before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed 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).