Mexican Siesta Casserole
A hearty, cheesy casserole bursting with bold Mexican flavors, featuring hominy, chili, olives, and beans, topped with crunchy Fritos or tortillas—perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients and put into a casserole dish.
- Top with crushed Fritos, tortillas, or Doritos and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until thoroughly hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic before mixing them with the other ingredients. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, feel free to substitute the hot chili with a vegan chili. You can also use pinto beans instead of kidney beans for a different texture. Crushed tortilla chips can be used in place of Fritos for a gluten-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty dish on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of Rio Grande Valley Grapefruit And Avocado Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Bean Tacos for a Mexican-themed dinner.
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 until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes, or until hot. Make sure to check that it is heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Siesta Casserole contains roughly 302 calories, with 17g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 957mg per serving (42% 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
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this casserole can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the hot chili you use is meat-free. Additionally, substitute cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or simply omit it. This way, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based version of this Mexican-inspired dish.
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).