Mexican Style Chili Bean Casserole
A hearty Mexican-style chili bean casserole with savory beef, melted cheese, and crunchy corn chips, perfect for casual dinners and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onions and green peppers, crumbling the beef with a fork.
- Combine the cooked beef mixture with chili beans and condensed tomato soup; bring to a boil.
- Pour the mixture into an ovenproof dish.
- Top with crushed corn chips and shredded cheese.
- Bake at 400°F for approximately 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use black beans or pinto beans instead of chili beans for a different flavor. To add extra spice, include diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder. Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top. Serve with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, consider a light Mexican slaw or a fresh avocado salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, or reheating in an oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes works well too.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Style Chili Bean Casserole contains roughly 990 calories, with 29g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (153% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1472mg per serving (64% 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 up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I substitute for the tomato soup?
If you don't have condensed tomato soup, you can use a mix of crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Combine one cup of crushed tomatoes with two tablespoons of tomato paste for a similar consistency and flavor.
Can I freeze the Mexican Style Chili Bean Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).