Mexican Casserole Ground Beef

This comforting Mexican casserole is what I make whenever I need a crowd-pleaser for potlucks or family dinners It is loaded with bold flavors creamy textures and plenty of oozy cheese for a dish that disappears every time

I made it for my kids’ birthday and now they ask for it at every celebration The best part is how the cheesy topping crisps up in the oven

• Lean ground beef: Choose high quality ground beef for best flavor and less grease

• Ranch Style beans: These add signature Tex Mex depth and make the casserole hearty Use your favorite brand

• Tortilla chips: Go for sturdy or restaurant style chips to hold up in layers The crunch adds great texture

• Ro tel tomatoes: These add mild heat and tang You can sub in diced tomatoes with green chilies if needed

• Small onion: Choose a fresh firm onion Finely chopped blends in best

• Shredded cheddar cheese: Always buy a block and shred it yourself for creamy melt and better taste

• Taco seasoning: Pick a flavorful taco mix or make your own for total control over spice

• Cream of chicken soup: This binds everything together for that crave worthy creamy base

• Water: Helps blend and loosen the mixture so it is not dry

• Sour cream and salsa: These toppings brighten things up Add at the end or let everyone add their own

When possible use fresh cheese and onions since they make a difference in quality

Step by Step Instructions

Brown the Meat:

Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat Stir occasionally and break it up as it cooks Let it go until fully browned and any juices have mostly evaporated This step develops much of the casserole’s savoriness Drain any excess fat to keep the final dish from feeling greasy

Build the Base Mixture:

To the beef add the chopped onion and cook briefly for about two minutes to soften Next stir in the Ranch Style beans Ro tel tomatoes taco seasoning cream of chicken soup and water Mix thoroughly so the soup and beans are fully incorporated Simmer over medium low heat for about five minutes to blend flavors

Layer the Casserole:

Lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch casserole dish Scatter a generous layer of crushed tortilla chips across the bottom making sure the chips are evenly spread Pour half the meat and bean mixture over chips Next add half of the shredded cheddar cheese covering the meat Repeat with another layer of the crushed chips then the remaining meat mixture followed by the rest of the cheese

Bake the Casserole:

Cover the dish tightly with foil This keeps the casserole moist and melty Bake on the center oven rack at 325 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes Remove foil for the last five minutes if you want the cheese to get golden and slightly crisp on top

Rest and Serve:

Once bubbling and hot remove from the oven Let the casserole rest uncovered for five to ten minutes This helps it set so the pieces hold their shape when sliced Top with sour cream and salsa as you serve

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This was my dad’s favorite potluck dish He loved sneaking extra cheese on top during the last five minutes of baking and I think that gooey topping made the meal memorable for all of us

Storage Tips

Store leftover Mexican casserole by letting it cool completely then covering tightly with foil or transferring to an airtight container It keeps well in the refrigerator for three to four days The chips will soften a bit but the flavors just get better Reheat portions covered in the oven or use a microwave for a quick lunch

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Ranch Style beans use canned pinto or black beans with a little extra taco spice For a chicken version swap the beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or use lean ground turkey Cream of mushroom soup works in place of chicken soup if that is what you have on hand Choose Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a meltier finish

Serving Suggestions

Serve big squares with plenty of sour cream and salsa on top Fresh cilantro brightens each serving and avocado slices are always welcome For extra heat sprinkle pickled jalapenos before baking At family gatherings I like putting out a topping bar with lettuce diced tomatoes and sliced olives so everyone can customize

Cultural and Historical Context

This casserole is inspired by Tex Mex comfort food which blends Mexican and American favorites into tasty hearty casseroles Ranch Style beans and Ro tel are regional classics that date back generations making this dish a staple for Sunday suppers through much of the South and Southwest

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef?

Yes, lean ground chicken or turkey can be used instead of beef while maintaining robust flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar melts well and adds sharpness, but Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend are great alternatives.

→ How do I keep the tortilla chips from getting soggy?

For extra crunch, add a top layer of chips just before serving or use thicker chips that hold up during baking.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

The casserole can be assembled and frozen before baking. Thaw overnight, then bake as usual for best results.

→ What sides complement this casserole?

Serve with a simple green salad, guacamole, or Spanish rice for a complete meal with balanced flavors.