Mexican Macaroni Casserole
A flavorful Mexican-inspired casserole combining spicy sausage, macaroni, vegetables, and cheese, baked to bubbly perfection—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Brown sausage with chopped onion and green pepper until sausage is fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Combine cooked sausage mixture with cooked macaroni, chopped tomatoes, milk, sour cream, chili powder, and salt.
- Pour mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using chorizo instead of hot sausage. You can also substitute the green pepper with jalapeños for extra heat. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni or even whole wheat pasta can work well. To enhance the creaminess, try adding a bit of cream cheese to the sour cream mixture. This dish is a great way to use up leftover vegetables from other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican Macaroni Casserole pairs beautifully with a side of Low-Fat Mexican Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for scooping. For a complete meal, consider a side of refried beans or a simple green salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, adding a splash of milk to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 415 calories, with 24g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2253mg per serving (98% 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 in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze the Mexican Macaroni Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, or bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. It provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a great choice for this casserole. Additionally, you can use a dairy-free yogurt if you're looking for a non-dairy alternative.
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).