Three-Layer Mexican Pie
A flavorful three-layer Mexican pie featuring seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef or sausage in a skillet, stirring until crumbly; drain well.
- Add the refried beans and seasoning mix to the skillet and mix well.
- Spread the beef-bean mixture in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the light sour cream over the top of the mixture.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef or sausage. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream to reduce calories while adding protein. If you're short on time, canned refried beans can be swapped with black beans or pinto beans, which can be mashed at home for a fresher taste. Don't forget to check out other Mexican recipes for more inspiration!
Serving Suggestions
This Three-Layer Mexican Pie is best served hot out of the oven, garnished with fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes for added freshness. Pair it with a crisp green salad or tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal. It also makes a great dish for potlucks, where it can be enjoyed alongside favorites like Taco Dip Or Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three-Layer Mexican Pie contains roughly 1071 calories, with 52g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (104% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1166mg per serving (51% 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 dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef or sausage with a plant-based alternative or additional vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also use vegetarian refried beans to keep the dish meat-free while maintaining its delicious flavor.
How can I spice up this recipe?
For added heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the beef-bean mixture. You can also top the pie with sliced avocado or a drizzle of hot sauce just before serving to enhance the flavor profile.
What can I serve with this Mexican pie?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or a refreshing corn salad. You could also serve it with grilled vegetables or a simple side of black beans to round out the meal.
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).