Let’s talk comfort food, fiesta style! Mexican Fiesta Casserole is the kind of dish that’s guaranteed to bring everyone to the table with a smile. Imagine layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, cheesy goodness, and a burst of fresh toppings all packed into one warm, hearty casserole. This dish is like a party in your mouth—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want something comforting with a little bit of a kick.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this fiesta-worthy casserole:
1 cup sour cream – This adds a cool creaminess that perfectly balances the spice.
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened – Smooth and tangy, it’s the secret to making the casserole extra rich.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The sharpness of cheddar is a classic in any casserole.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – It melts beautifully, making every bite gooey and delightful.
1 cup shredded lettuce – This adds a fresh crunch as the perfect finishing touch.
1/2 cup diced tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, they bring a burst of freshness.
1/4 cup sliced black olives – They give the casserole a briny kick, adding a layer of flavor.
1 lb (450g) ground beef – The heart of this dish, seasoned just right.
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning) – This is where the magic happens, adding all the savory spices.
1/2 cup water – Helps to bring the seasoning together and create a flavorful beef mixture.
1 can (15 oz) refried beans – The creamy, savory base of your casserole.
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional) – For those who like a little extra heat.
Fresh cilantro, chopped – To garnish, bringing a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Tortilla chips, for serving – The perfect side for scooping up all the delicious layers.
Instructions
Let’s get this casserole in the oven so you can enjoy it! Follow these easy steps for a meal that’s sure to be a hit.
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a large baking dish so the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Brown the beef until it’s fully cooked, then drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef and stir it together. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, so the seasoning soaks in and the beef is extra flavorful.
3. Prepare the Layers:
Start by spreading the refried beans evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. The beans will act as a creamy base layer, adding richness to the casserole.
Next, layer the seasoned beef mixture on top of the beans. This is where all those savory flavors really start to come together.
4. Add the Creamy Layer:
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and cream cheese until smooth. Spread this creamy mixture over the beef. It will melt and mix with the beef to create a deliciously smooth texture throughout the casserole.
5. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the creamy layer. Don’t be shy with the cheese—this is what makes the casserole ooze with deliciousness as it bakes.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The cheese will turn golden and start to form a beautiful crust around the edges, just begging to be served.
7. Add Fresh Toppings:
Once the casserole is out of the oven, it’s time to top it off with fresh
Ingredients
. Add the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, black olives, and jalapeños (if you like it spicy) on top. A little sprinkle of fresh cilantro will finish it off with a burst of flavor.
8. Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a couple of minutes, then serve it up with a side of tortilla chips for scooping. It’s like a Mexican feast in every bite!
Notes
Customize the Heat: If you like your dishes on the spicier side, you can always add more jalapeños or even throw in some diced green chilies to the beef mixture. Want to turn down the heat? Just skip the jalapeños entirely!
Add Extra Veggies: You can sneak in some veggies if you like. Chopped onions, bell peppers, or even some corn can be mixed in with the beef for added texture and flavor.
Make It Ahead: This casserole is great for prepping in advance. You can assemble everything, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Try It With Chicken: Want to switch things up? Substitute the ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter, but equally delicious, version of this casserole.
Nutrition
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the
Nutrition
al information per serving (assuming 8 servings):
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
This casserole has a good amount of protein thanks to the ground beef and cheese, while the refried beans add fiber to keep you feeling full longer. It’s indulgent but packed with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion!
Additional Information
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