Wanda'S Mexican Casserole
A hearty Mexican casserole layered with seasoned beef, chilies, and cheeses, perfect for satisfying family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger with chopped onion.
- Add chopped chilies, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and enchilada sauce.
- Heat the mixture through.
- Lightly grease an oblong baking dish.
- Alternate layers of corn tortillas and hamburger mixture in the dish.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using jalapeños or adding a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked shredded chicken can be a great substitute for hamburger. You can also try using flour tortillas for a different texture. This casserole can be customized with other ingredients such as black beans or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Wanda's Mexican Casserole is delicious served with a side of refried beans or a fresh salad. Consider pairing it with Black Bean And Lime Dip for a tasty appetizer before the main dish. You can also serve it with sour cream and salsa on the side for added flavor. This meal is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wanda'S Mexican Casserole contains roughly 1186 calories, with 31g protein, 185g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (77% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2263mg per serving (98% 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. Simply layer the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you're looking for a substitution, you can use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead. For a healthier option, consider making a homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and milk, seasoned to your liking, which will work just as well in this recipe.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze Wanda's Mexican Casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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).