Cheesy Mexican Casserole

How to make Cheesy Mexican Casserole

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef

½ cup fresh chopped tomato

2 cups of salsa

1 can chili beans, drained

2 cups sour cream

1 can, 2 ounces, sliced black olives

½ cup green onion chopped

½ cup fresh tomato, chopped

3 cups tortilla chips, crushed

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350*

In a large skillet, crumble and brown the hamburger to cook it thoroughly.

Stir in the salsa, reduce the heat to a simmer and let simmer for 20 minutes

When the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the beans and heat through

Lightly spray a 9×13 baking pan

Spread the crushed chips in an even layer

Spoon the beef mixture over the top

Spread the sour cream over the beef

Sprinkle the olives, green onions and fresh chopped tomatoes over the top

Sprinkle the top completely with shredded cheddar cheese

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbly

Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 8 | Serving: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meat substitutes like textured vegetable protein (TVP) if you prefer.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar cheese?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Mexican blend cheese or Monterey Jack cheese would also work well in this recipe.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the casserole?

Absolutely! You can choose a mild or spicy salsa based on your preference. Additionally, you can add spices like chili powder, cumin, or hot sauce to adjust the heat level to your liking.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as it may take a bit longer to heat through.

Can I add additional vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can customize it by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or diced zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this casserole. Let it cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire casserole to airtight containers or freezer bags.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to adjust the baking time as needed, as a cold casserole may take a bit longer to heat through.

Can I add other toppings to the casserole?

Of course! You can get creative with additional toppings such as diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or shredded lettuce.

You can also garnish it with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Can I make a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Absolutely! You can omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables like corn, diced bell peppers, or zucchini to make a delicious vegetarian version.

You can also use vegetarian-friendly cheese and sour cream alternatives.