Mexican Starburst Casserole
A cheesy, flavorful Mexican-inspired casserole featuring ground beef, green chilies, and noodles, perfect for a comforting family dinner with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil; add chopped green onion and cook until tender.
- Add lean ground beef and drained green chilies; cook until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato soup, water, and chili powder.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook elbow noodles according to package instructions, drain.
- Layer cooked noodles into the skillet, top with halved cheese slices, cover until cheese melts, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you don't have green chilies, diced bell peppers can be a suitable substitute. To make this dish vegetarian, replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal. A crisp green salad or Mexican corn salad would also complement the flavors nicely. This dish pairs beautifully with Taco Salad(Club Member: Keisha Hudson) for a delightful Tex-Mex feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Starburst Casserole contains roughly 503 calories, with 22g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 752mg per serving (33% 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 use a different type of pasta in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute elbow noodles with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make a healthier version, opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach to increase the nutrient content without compromising flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil to keep it fresh. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking 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).