Mild Mexican Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring seasoned ground meat layered with crispy tortilla chips, rich enchilada sauce, and creamy soups, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers a mild, savory taste with a touch of spice from jalapenos and onions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat, chopped onions, and chopped jalapenos in a skillet.
- Drain the excess fat from the meat mixture.
- In a bowl, combine the evaporated milk, enchilada sauce, cream of chicken soup, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Layer in a Pyrex casserole dish: start with a layer of tortilla chips, then add some of the meat mixture, and sprinkle with a little cheese. Repeat these layers twice, ending with the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can adjust the spice level by using mild or hot jalapenos, or adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. If you don't have evaporated milk, regular milk or cream can work as a substitute. For a twist, try layering in some black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mild Mexican Casserole with a dollop of sour cream and a side of fresh guacamole for a delicious meal. It pairs beautifully with Sour Cream Enchilada Casserole for a Mexican-themed dinner. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or some Mexican rice to complete the meal.
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 (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mild Mexican Casserole contains roughly 1042 calories, with 29g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), iron (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2344mg per serving (102% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze the Mild Mexican Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake it as instructed. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy nights.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream of chicken soup, you can use homemade white sauce or a can of cream of celery soup for a similar texture. Alternatively, a homemade mixture of sour cream and chicken broth can also work well and add a nice tangy flavor.
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).