Mexican Cheesy Bean Casserole
A hearty Mexican-inspired casserole layered with seasoned beef, beans, green chilies, and melted cheddar cheese, topped with crunchy Doritos — perfect for a flavorful family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a pan; drain excess fat.
- Return the browned meat and onion to the pan and add drained kidney beans, green chilies with tomatoes, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 minutes.
- Layer the bottom of a casserole dish with Doritos.
- Spread the meat and bean mixture over the Doritos.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned ground beef or adding a pinch of cumin. If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also use black beans or pinto beans in place of kidney beans. For a spicier kick, mix in jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican Cheesy Bean Casserole is perfect for casual gatherings or game day. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with a side of Pronto Spanish Rice And Beef for a complete meal. For added crunch, consider serving with more Doritos or tortilla chips. This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but ensure it’s covered to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Cheesy Bean Casserole contains roughly 572 calories, with 32g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (75% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2365mg per serving (103% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily transform this casserole into a vegetarian dish by omitting the ground beef and using plant-based crumbles or simply adding more beans and vegetables. Ensure to choose vegetarian-friendly cheese to maintain the cheesy flavor without the meat.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce in the meat mixture. Additionally, using spicy chili powder or adding cayenne pepper can enhance the spice level to your liking.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it without baking and cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed for a delicious meal any time.
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).