Mexicalli
A hearty, cheesy beef and noodle casserole with rich tomato sauce, perfect for satisfying family dinners with bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Saute chopped onion and bell pepper until tender.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the cooked beef and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the Ragu sauce and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook and drain the noodles according to package instructions.
- Place the cooked noodles on top of the meat mixture in a serving dish.
- Sprinkle grated sharp Cheddar cheese over the noodles.
- Cover and simmer for another 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with salad and garlic bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the beef mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute the Ragu sauce with any jarred pasta sauce you have on hand. For a healthier twist, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This dish can easily be made vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat and a meatless sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexicalli dish pairs excellently with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For added crunch, serve with tortilla chips or a side of avocado. It also goes well with a refreshing salsa or guacamole. For more delicious options, check out other Mexican recipes that complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute increments until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and the cheese is bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicalli contains roughly 273 calories, with 10g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (322% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1355mg per serving (59% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar adds a nice kick, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that gooey texture.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce and noodles separately, then combine them before baking. Store each component in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply assemble and bake until heated through.
What can I serve with Mexicalli?
Mexicalli is great on its own, but you can enhance the meal with sides like a fresh garden salad, corn on the cob, or a serving of Easy Mexican Dish for a festive touch. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite beverage, like a chilled margarita or iced tea!
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).