Mexi-Bake: A One-Dish Family Meal That’s Always a Hit
If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal that’s sure to impress at your next family gathering, look no further than this delicious Mexi-Bake. A twist on a beloved recipe from my time working at a childcare center, this dish has evolved over the years into something that consistently steals the spotlight. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this baked creation never fails to please a crowd. Not only does it come together in under an hour, but it’s also budget-friendly and packed with wholesome ingredients.
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Category: One-Dish Meal
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Recipe Yield: Serves 6
- Calories per Serving: 1140.3 kcal
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1140.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 37.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 105.5 mg |
| Sodium | 736.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 158.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.3 g |
| Sugars | 9.7 g |
| Protein | 41.1 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1, diced |
| Red Capsicum (Bell Pepper) | 1, diced |
| Corn Kernels | 1 can (approx. 500 g) |
| Mushroom Pieces | 1 cup |
| Rice | 500 g, cooked |
| Sour Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Beef Mince (Ground Beef) | 500 g |
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Cheese (optional) | 1/2 cup, shredded |
| Seasoning Mix (Taco or Mexican) | 1 packet |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (moderate heat).
- Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and red capsicum (bell pepper). Sauté for 3 minutes or until the vegetables soften and begin to release their fragrance.
- Drain the corn and mushroom pieces from their respective cans or containers. Add these to the pan and stir them through the sautéed onion and capsicum mixture. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to combine the flavors.
- Remove the vegetable mixture from the pan and set aside for later.
- In the same pan, brown the beef mince (ground beef), breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This ensures it cooks evenly and that no large chunks remain.
- Once the meat is browned, stir in the vegetable mixture, ensuring the beef and vegetables are well incorporated.
- Add the seasoning mix (preferably a taco or Mexican blend) along with any additional seasonings you enjoy. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Meanwhile, spoon the cooked rice into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Top the rice with the beef and vegetable mixture, ensuring it’s spread out evenly.
- Dollop sour cream over the top and, if desired, sprinkle with shredded cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges begin to crisp up.
- Remove from the oven, allow it to cool slightly before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Customize the vegetables: Feel free to swap in other veggies like zucchini or spinach to suit your family’s preferences.
- Cheese options: Try different cheese varieties like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicier option like jalapeño cheese for an added kick.
- Spice it up: If you love heat, consider adding fresh chilies or a bit of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Make it ahead: This dish is great for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Why You’ll Love It
This Mexi-Bake is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, with layers of tender rice, savory beef, sautéed vegetables, and tangy sour cream. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and can be served at family gatherings or weeknight dinners alike. Plus, it’s a great dish to prepare ahead of time for those busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of hearty meat, fresh veggies, and spices ensures that every bite is full of rich, satisfying flavors.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this Mexi-Bake is a simple yet tasty dish that will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Its combination of affordable ingredients, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing flavors make it the perfect dish to share with loved ones. Try it out, and you’ll soon see why it’s a family favorite that never goes out of style!
