Name: Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cups salsa; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 package (1.25 oz) taco seasoning; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup crushed tortilla chips

Mexican cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, colorful presentations, and soul-satisfying dishes. If you're looking to bring a bit of this culinary excitement into your home, especially for a busy weeknight dinner, an Easy Mexican Casserole might just be the perfect dish. This recipe is not only packed with traditional flavors but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a hit for both the cook and the diners.

Ingredients and Preparation

To whip up this hearty casserole, you'll need:

1 pound of ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (8 oz) of corn, drained, or equivalent frozen or fresh
1 can (10 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 cup of salsa
1 packet (1 oz) of taco seasoning
2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
6-8 medium flour tortillas
Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, sour cream, diced avocado

Here’s how to put it all together:

Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, tomatoes with chilies, and salsa. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Layer the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Cut the tortillas into strips or quarters. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the tortilla pieces, followed by half of the meat mixture, and then half of the cheese. Repeat the layers once more.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serving and Enjoyment

This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven. Top it with fresh cilantro, green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or some diced avocado to enhance its richness and complexity. It pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Why This Recipe Works

This Easy Mexican Casserole recipe excels for several reasons:

Versatility: You can easily substitute ingredients based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, switch out the meat for a vegetarian protein like quinoa or tofu, or add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
Convenience: The recipe is ideal for preparing ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole, refrigerate, and bake when ready to enjoy. It also freezes well for future meals.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its familiar yet exciting flavor profile makes it a favorite among both adults and children, ensuring no leftovers go to waste.

In conclusion, this Easy Mexican Casserole is a flavorful, satisfying dish that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine with minimal effort. Whether you're feeding a large family or looking for a delicious dish that can provide multiple meals throughout the week, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Give it a try, and let the fiesta of flavors light up your dining table!