Shelly'S Mexican Casserole(Microwave Dish)
A hearty microwave Mexican casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, crispy tortilla chips, melted cheddar cheese, and flavorful tomato and green chili sauce, perfect for quick family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef for 5 minutes on High, then crumble.
- Mix cream of chicken soup and tomatoes with green chilies.
- Layer half of the tortilla chips in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Add half of the cooked beef, onion slices, soup mixture, and cheese on top.
- Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
- Cook uncovered at 155°F for about 12 to 14 minutes until cheese melts and dish is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use leftover cooked chicken for a quicker prep. If you don't have cream of chicken soup, a homemade version with chicken broth and a roux works well. This dish also pairs nicely with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a fresh guacamole and tortilla sides. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a zesty Mexican taco soup or a light salad. This dish is sure to impress guests at any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of broth or water before reheating to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shelly'S Mexican Casserole(Microwave Dish) contains roughly 910 calories, with 26g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1826mg per serving (79% 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 layers in advance and refrigerate the assembled casserole for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a leaner option. You could also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as pre-cooked chicken will need less time to heat through.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor. Experimenting with different cheeses can give a unique twist to the dish.
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).