Description

This Mexican Beef Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish, packed with flavor and texture. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines hearty beef, ranch-style beans, and crunchy tortilla chips, all topped with gooey cheese. This dish is not only easy to make, but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• Lean Ground Beef: The star protein of the casserole, ground beef adds richness and heartiness to the dish. The lean version ensures that it’s not too greasy, allowing the other ingredients to shine.
• Ranch Style Beans: These beans bring a tangy, hearty element to the casserole, complementing the savory beef and adding a bit of sweetness and acidity.
• Tortilla Chips: Acting as a crunchy base, tortilla chips give texture to the casserole and provide that delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy components.
• Ro-tel Tomatoes: These tomatoes bring a spicy, tangy flavor to the dish, giving it a vibrant kick. The combination of tomatoes and green chilies adds depth to the casserole’s flavor profile.
• Chopped Onion: Onions add depth and subtle sweetness, balancing the savory and spicy flavors.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This cheese melts into a gooey, cheesy layer, pulling all the components together and making the casserole irresistibly creamy.
• Taco Seasoning: This seasoning blend gives the dish that signature taco flavor, infusing the casserole with Mexican spices.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds a creamy, velvety texture to the casserole while helping bind everything together.
• Water: Helps the ingredients come together smoothly, ensuring a cohesive consistency.
• Sour Cream and Salsa: Served on top as a garnish, these condiments offer a cool contrast to the spicy and warm casserole, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Preparation Method

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat and drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, then mix in taco seasoning.
3. Stir in ranch-style beans and Ro-tel tomatoes, then simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Mix in cream of chicken soup and water, then simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and layer crushed tortilla chips in a baking dish.
6. Pour the beef mixture over the chips and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly and serve with sour cream and salsa.

Tips and Conclusion

Customize with Your Favorite Toppings: Feel free to add additional toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or chopped cilantro for extra freshness and flavor.

Make it Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s chilled.

Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb version, skip the tortilla chips and use a cauliflower rice base instead. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying, without the added carbs.

Add Extra Vegetables: You can sneak in more vegetables by adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn to the beef mixture.
This Mexican Beef Casserole with Ranch Style Beans is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and has the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory elements. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings, and feel free to make it your own by customizing the ingredients to suit your tastes. Happy cooking!