Mexican Dinner
A hearty Mexican-inspired casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, green chilies, beans, and rich tomato sauce layered with cheese and crispy tostados. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, it offers bold flavors and a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped green chilies, chili beans, tomato sauce, and water to the beef.
- Simmer the mixture uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Line a serving bowl or dish with tostados or Fritos.
- Spread half of the meat mixture over the tostados.
- Add a layer of cheese over the meat.
- Add another layer of the remaining meat mixture.
- Top with additional cheese.
- Place tostados on top as a final layer.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider spicing up the ground beef with cumin or chili powder while browning. If you're short on time, canned chili beans can be substituted with cooked lentils or beans. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Serve this dish with a side of Mexican Cornbread With Meat for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Dinner hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or jalapeños for extra zest. It pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican recipes like guacamole or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or homemade salsa to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Mexican Dinner can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Dinner contains roughly 408 calories, with 27g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1037mg per serving (45% 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 mix of black beans and lentils. You can also add diced vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its melty texture and sharp flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a creamy finish. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
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).