Mexican Beef Casserole
Description
I first experienced this delightful recipe during my high school days at a friend’s house. Her mom would prepare it as a weekly meal, and the rich, comforting flavors convinced me that it must require a significant amount of time and effort. However, after years of persuading her, she finally shared the specifics, and I was pleasantly surprised by its simplicity. Quick, easy, and incredibly delicious, this dish has become a family favorite. My kids adore it just as much as I do. To accommodate my cheese-averse husband, I always prepare one version with cheese and one without. I have even adapted the recipe to cook it on the stovetop, frying the tortillas to a crisp with a touch of salt on top, akin to cheese-free nachos. Living with someone who doesn’t eat cheese has taught me to be creative with my recipes. Oh, how I miss lasagna, but that’s a story for another time. For now, enjoy this quick, easy, and utterly satisfying Mexican Beef Casserole.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 large onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 can Rotel Tomatoes (10 ounces)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying tortillas)
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 1491.8
- Fat: 113.9g
- Saturated Fat: 62.3g
- Cholesterol: 392.8mg
- Sodium: 2418.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 13.7g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 2.9g
- Protein: 101g
Preparation
Total Time: 40 Minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
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Brown and Drain Ground Beef:
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, cooking it until it is browned evenly. Use a slotted spoon to remove the beef from the skillet, draining off excess fat.
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Add Onion and Garlic Salt:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic salt. Cook until the onion becomes tender and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
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Combine Remaining Ingredients:
- Return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Add the black pepper and Rotel Tomatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Fry the Tortillas:
- Meanwhile, in a separate frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry each tortilla for about 10 seconds on each side until they are crisp. Transfer the fried tortillas to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
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Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 360°F (182°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish lightly with cooking spray or a small amount of vegetable oil. Begin the layering process by placing a layer of fried tortillas at the bottom of the dish. Follow with a layer of the meat mixture. Repeat the layers until the dish is full, ensuring the final layer is the meat mixture.
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Add Cheese:
- If you are including cheese, generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top layer of the meat mixture.
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Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into portions. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors of this Mexican Beef Casserole.
Tips for Success
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Cheese-Free Version: If you’re preparing a version without cheese, simply omit the cheese layer. You can add a sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice on top for an extra burst of flavor.
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Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
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Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil until you’re ready to bake it.
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Leftover Potential: This dish makes excellent leftovers. Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Pairing Suggestions
To complete your meal, consider serving this Mexican Beef Casserole with a side of Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. A dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of guacamole, or a splash of salsa on top can enhance the flavors and add a delightful contrast to the richness of the casserole. For a refreshing beverage, a cold cerveza or a tangy margarita would pair beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Beef Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s a nostalgic journey back to the comfort of shared meals and cherished memories. Its simplicity belies the depth of flavor that each bite delivers, making it a reliable go-to for busy weeknights and casual family gatherings alike. Whether you’re catering to a cheese lover or navigating around dietary preferences, this dish proves that versatility and taste can coexist harmoniously in one hearty, satisfying meal. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of this recipe bring a touch of Mexican warmth to your dinner table. Enjoy!
