Tex-Mex Style Cheesy Chili Casserole
A flavorful Tex-Mex casserole combining seasoned ground beef, green peppers, corn, and cheesy goodness, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped green peppers to the beef and cook until tender.
- Stir in drained corn, tomato sauce, and chili powder; cook for a few minutes.
- Add half a cup of Cheez Whiz and stir until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot over tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding black beans or diced tomatoes to the mixture. If you don't have Cheez Whiz, you can substitute with shredded cheddar or a creamy cheese sauce. Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce if you like heat. This casserole is versatile, and you can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy chili casserole hot over a bed of tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. It pairs beautifully with a side of guacamole or sour cream. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or your favorite Mexican recipes for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tex-Mex Style Cheesy Chili Casserole contains roughly 721 calories, with 26g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and protein (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1054mg per serving (46% 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 casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in a baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes. Each option will bring a different flavor profile but will still work well with the other ingredients in the casserole.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake 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).