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This hearty Mexican-inspired casserole brings together layers of savory ground beef, zesty beans, and melty cheese for a family-friendly dinner that's both comforting and flavorful. The combination of crispy tortilla chips and spiced beef creates that perfect balance of textures that makes Mexican cuisine so irresistible.
This recipe became my go to weeknight dinner solution after a particularly hectic soccer practice evening when I needed something quick but satisfying. My family devoured it so enthusiastically that it now makes a regular appearance in our dinner rotation at least twice a month.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: provides the hearty protein base while staying relatively low in fat
- Ranch Style beans: add authentic Tex Mex flavor and extra protein
- Tortilla chips: create the perfect crunchy foundation and textural contrast
- RoTel tomatoes with green chilies: deliver instant heat and acidity without extra chopping
- Finely chopped onion: adds aromatic sweetness when cooked with the beef
- Shredded cheddar cheese: creates that irresistible melty golden top
- Taco seasoning packet: provides perfectly balanced Mexican spices without measuring
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: creates a rich binding sauce that holds everything together
- Water: helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency
- Sour cream for serving: cools the spice and adds creamy richness
- Salsa for serving: brings bright fresh flavor to each portion
How To Make Mexican Casserole Ground Beef
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 165°C which allows for even gentle cooking that wont burn the chips. Lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm baking dish with a thin layer of cooking oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it is completely browned with no pink remaining about 7 to 8 minutes. If your beef releases excess fat tilt the pan and spoon it off or use a paper towel to absorb it for a cleaner sauce.
- Create the Sauce Mixture:
- Add the Ranch Style beans RoTel tomatoes finely chopped onion taco seasoning condensed cream of chicken soup and water to the skillet with the browned beef. Stir thoroughly ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes which helps the flavors meld together and slightly thickens the sauce.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Begin by creating a generous layer of crushed tortilla chips covering the bottom of your prepared baking dish. The chips should be broken into large pieces not completely crushed to dust. Spoon half of your beef mixture evenly over the chips then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese across the top. Repeat this layering process with another layer of chips the remaining beef mixture and finally the rest of the cheese on top.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil which prevents the cheese from burning while allowing the casserole to heat through. Bake covered in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes until you can see the edges bubbling which indicates it is thoroughly heated.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This crucial step helps the layers set making it easier to serve in clean portions. Serve individual helpings topped with dollops of cool sour cream and your favorite salsa.
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The Ranch Style beans are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered their unique flavor profile years ago at a friends Texas themed dinner party and have been incorporating them into my Mexican dishes ever since. Their slightly sweet spiced sauce adds depth that regular refried or black beans simply cant match.
Make Ahead Instructions
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights because you can prepare it entirely in advance. Simply follow all assembly instructions but stop before baking. Cover the assembled casserole tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time since youre starting with a cold dish. The flavors actually develop wonderfully with a rest in the refrigerator making this an even more flavorful dinner option.
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Ingredient Substitutions
Dont have all the exact ingredients on hand? No problem. Ranch Style beans can be replaced with pinto or black beans with an extra teaspoon of chili powder. Ground turkey works beautifully as a leaner alternative to beef. Pepper jack cheese can substitute for cheddar if you prefer more heat. For a vegetarian version omit the meat and double the beans or add a package of plant based ground protein. The cream of chicken soup can be swapped for cream of mushroom or even a cup of sour cream mixed with a quarter cup of chicken broth for a similar creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Turn this casserole into a complete fiesta by serving it with complementary sides. A simple green salad with cilantro lime dressing provides a fresh contrast to the rich casserole. Mexican street corn works wonderfully alongside it especially in summer months. For drinks consider serving with homemade horchata for the kids or margaritas for the adults. Set up a topping bar with diced avocado sliced black olives chopped cilantro diced tomatoes and extra sour cream so everyone can customize their portion.
Storage and Freezing
Leftover casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2 minutes or until heated through. The entire casserole can be reheated covered in a 150°C oven for about 20 minutes. This dish also freezes exceptionally well. After cooling completely portion into freezer safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- → What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, guacamole, or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
- → Do I need to use all the tortilla chips?
No, use the amount needed to fully cover the layers without overwhelming the dish. Reserve some for garnish if desired.
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the layers, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.