Mexican Special
A flavorful Mexican-inspired casserole combining pasta, seasoned beef, tomatoes, and peppers topped with melted, slightly browned cheddar cheese. Perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers a satisfying mix of spicy, savory, and cheesy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the macaroni.
- Add the cooked macaroni, canned tomatoes, herb tomato sauce, minced onions, minced garlic, grated green peppers, crushed red peppers, and cooked chuck beef into a casserole dish.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese starts to slightly brown, about 20-30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before baking. If you don't have chuck beef, ground beef or turkey is a suitable substitute. You can also add black beans for extra protein and fiber, making this dish fit into vegetarian recipes by omitting the meat altogether.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Special with a fresh side salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. It pairs beautifully with Salsa Layer Dip for an appetizer. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing drink like iced tea or a fruity margarita. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings and can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Special contains roughly 349 calories, with 21g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (345% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 664mg per serving (29% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling it in the dish but not baking it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, Monterey Jack or pepper jack would work well for a slightly spicier kick. Alternatively, you could use a blend of Mexican cheeses for a more complex flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Sauté them before adding to the casserole for a deeper flavor, or mix in fresh spinach right before baking for a pop of color and health benefits.
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).