Spicy Beef Casserole
A spicy beef casserole with flavorful tomatoes, chilies, and a crispy biscuit topping, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°F. Cook and stir ground beef, chopped onion, and crushed garlic in a skillet until beef is browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in stewed tomatoes, taco sauce, chopped green chilies, and beef bouillon cubes.
- Cook until bouillon cubes are dissolved. Mix flour and water to form a slurry.
- Stir the flour-water mixture into the beef mixture.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour the beef mixture into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix Bisquick, 2 tablespoons cornmeal, and milk until a soft dough forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the beef mixture by tablespoonfuls.
- Sprinkle the remaining cornmeal over the biscuit dough.
- Bake uncovered until biscuits are golden brown, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use homemade taco seasoning instead of jarred sauce for a fresher flavor. Ensure to drain the canned tomatoes to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Beef Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it with cornbread or tortilla chips. Top with shredded cheese or fresh cilantro for added flavor. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily feed a crowd.
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 heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but this may result in softer biscuits.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Beef Casserole contains roughly 763 calories, with 21g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% 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 beef mixture and the dough separately a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and when ready to bake, assemble and cook according to the recipe. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I use instead of Bisquick?
If you don't have Bisquick, you can make your own baking mix by combining 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This homemade mix will work just as well in the casserole.
Can I freeze the Spicy Beef Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
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).