Western Mex
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining ground beef, vegetables, macaroni, and spicy taco seasoning, perfect for a family dinner that satisfies cravings for comfort food with a southwestern twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the beef.
- Stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Add corn, tomato paste, water, and macaroni and cheese as directed on the package.
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Add taco seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Grease a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of this dish, consider adding black beans or diced tomatoes for extra texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, jalapeños can be included. You can also substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based crumbles and vegetable broth instead of beef and water. This versatile recipe is a great way to explore Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of tortilla chips or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with guacamole and sour cream to add creaminess. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside the Baked Taco Dip for a fun, family-style feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until heated through or place the whole dish back in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. Ensure it’s covered to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Western Mex contains roughly 876 calories, with 27g protein, 176g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (351% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and bake it when you're ready. This is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I use instead of macaroni and cheese?
If you don't have macaroni and cheese on hand, you can substitute it with any other pasta type, such as rotini or penne, and add a cheese sauce of your choice. Alternatively, you can use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator 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).