South Of The Border
A flavorful layered casserole combining corn chips, beans, vegetables, and cheese with a spicy tomato sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying comfort food. Vegetarian-friendly.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line the bottom of a 5-quart casserole dish with half the corn chips.
- Layer the remaining ingredients in order: chopped onion, kidney beans with liquid, sliced black olives, vegetarian burger, and remaining corn chips.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine tomato sauce and taco seasoning mix.
- Pour the sauce over the layered mixture in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated sharp Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 45 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the layering process. If you're short on time, pre-made vegetarian burger crumbles can work just as well. You can also substitute the kidney beans with black beans for a different flavor profile. To enhance the dish, try adding fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes between layers.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a casual gathering or potluck. Serve it with a side of Mccoy'S Very Famous Salsa for a refreshing contrast. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some Easy Guacamole Dip to balance the flavors. You can also offer sour cream or avocado slices on the side for added creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions. If the cheese has become hard, add a splash of water before reheating to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Of The Border contains roughly 726 calories, with 35g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1882mg per serving (82% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of vegetarian burger?
If you're not a fan of vegetarian burger, you can use lentils or crumbled tofu as a substitute. Both options provide a hearty texture while keeping the dish vegetarian. You can also opt for store-bought meat alternatives available in many grocery stores for convenience.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).