Pinto Casserole
Pinto Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring savory hamburger and a medley of beans, tomatoes, and spices. It’s topped with golden cornbread for a comforting meal that suits families and gatherings perfectly. Enjoy the blend of textures and tastes in this satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook hamburger in a pot; drain.
- Pour in the other ingredients and cook for 20 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan or dish.
- Mix 1 box of Jiffy corn bread mix according to the directions; drop tablespoons of the mix on top of the casserole to form about 5 biscuits down each side of the dish (10 in all).
- Bake according to Jiffy directions until golden, for 20 to 25 minutes at 400°.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or pork sausage instead of hamburger. You can also add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for a spicy kick. If you don't have Jiffy corn bread mix, any cornbread recipe will work. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for lentils or a mix of beans. Drain the canned ingredients well to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This Pinto Casserole is hearty enough to serve as a main dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad like K.C.'S Broccoli Salad for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top enhances the flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal. If freezing, cover tightly and consume within three months for the best quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pinto Casserole contains roughly 234 calories, with 12g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (87% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 919mg per serving (40% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of Mexicorn?
If you don't have Mexicorn, you can substitute with regular corn and add a mix of diced green chilies or bell peppers to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, any canned or frozen corn will work just fine to maintain the texture of the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Definitely! You can add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. If you enjoy a smoky flavor, consider adding chipotle powder or smoked paprika to elevate the heat level without overpowering the other ingredients.
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).