Mexicano
A flavorful Mexican-inspired casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and a creamy soup topping, baked to perfection for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a large casserole dish with flour tortillas.
- Layer browned ground beef, chopped onions, Ranch Style beans, and grated cheese over the tortillas.
- Cover the layered ingredients with another layer of tortillas.
- Spread the cream of celery soup evenly over the top layer.
- Pour the can of tomatoes with chilies over the soup.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the ground beef with taco seasoning or spices like cumin and chili powder. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of cream of celery soup. You can also enhance the dish with bell peppers or corn for extra texture. Using a mix of cheeses can elevate the taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a family gathering or casual dinner. Serve with a side of Mexican Corn Bread Bake for a delightful combination. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or sour cream for added richness. A crisp green salad or tortilla chips with salsa would also complement the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicano contains roughly 554 calories, with 21g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1084mg per serving (47% 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 meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I do if I don't have cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can make a homemade version by mixing equal parts of cream cheese and broth, adding celery salt for flavor. Alternatively, you can use cream of mushroom or chicken soup as a substitute.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider using a spicier canned tomato option, such as diced tomatoes with jalapeños or adding sliced fresh chilies. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes between the layers for an extra kick.
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).