Mexicalli Radiatore Casserole
A flavorful and cheesy casserole blending seasoned ground beef, tomato soup, olives, and melty mozzarella, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- Saute ground beef in a large skillet until browned, then drain any excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning, water, and tomato soup into the beef.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, sliced olives, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese into the skillet and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also use whole wheat radiatore for a healthier twist. If you like it spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. For extra flavor, sauté some onions and garlic with the beef.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with Spanish Rice Crock-Pot Style and a side of fresh guacamole for a complete meal. A simple green salad or corn on the cob can complement the dish as well. For extra crunch, serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicalli Radiatore Casserole contains roughly 394 calories, with 19g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1874mg per serving (81% 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 dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze the Mexicalli Radiatore Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish without baking it. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use canned diced tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce. Just add a bit of sugar to balance the acidity. Another option is to blend fresh tomatoes with some broth to create a similar consistency and 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).