"Quick And Easy" Mexican Casserole
A quick, cheesy Mexican casserole layered with flavorful green chilies, hearty meat, and crispy tortilla chips, perfect for satisfying family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Brown hamburger and drain grease.
- Mix all soups and green chilies with meat; stir and simmer until hot.
- Grate cheese and cut onion into small pieces.
- Put some tortilla chips in a large, deep pan to cover the bottom.
- Add some of the meat and soup mixture on top of the chips, using it sparingly.
- Layer onion and cheese over this, without mixing together.
- Save some onion and cheese for topping if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you don't have green chilies, diced jalapeños work well too. You can also use ground turkey or chicken in place of hamburger for a lighter option. Make sure to layer the ingredients carefully to avoid soggy chips, and feel free to add black beans for extra protein and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes for a burst of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of Southwestern Chicken Salad or a simple green salad to balance the richness. For an extra crunch, add some avocado slices on top, and consider serving with sour cream or salsa on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but the oven helps maintain the crispiness of the tortilla chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Quick And Easy" Mexican Casserole contains roughly 19 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute if I'm allergic to cream soups?
If you're allergic to cream soups, you can make a quick homemade version using a roux of flour and butter, adding milk and seasonings to achieve a creamy texture. Alternatively, a dairy-free cream soup or a homemade cheese sauce can work well in this recipe.
Can I freeze the Mexican casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole after baking it. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).