Welcome to another delightful culinary adventure on our blog! Today, we’re diving into the world of Mexican comfort food with our sensational Throw Together Mexican Casserole recipe. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to make your cooking experience enjoyable and your taste buds dance with joy. Let’s get started!
Who is this Recipe For?
This Throw Together Mexican Casserole is for anyone who loves the rich and bold flavors of Mexican cuisine but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Busy parents, working professionals, and college students – this recipe is tailored to fit your busy lifestyle without compromising on taste. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together the goodness of ground beef, corn, salsa, olives, kidney beans, and more, all harmoniously baked to perfection.
Why It’s Great
What makes this recipe truly fantastic is its simplicity without sacrificing flavor. By using easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward process, you can whip up a scrumptious meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of textures and tastes – from the hearty ground beef to the sweet corn and tangy salsa – creates a symphony of flavors that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the versatility of this casserole allows you to get creative with variations and swaps to suit your taste preferences.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Before you embark on your culinary journey, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment at the ready:
- Skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Oven preheated to 325°F (165°C)
Tips and Shortcuts
- To save time, you can prepare the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the casserole.
- Want to add an extra layer of gooey goodness? Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and double up on beans or add your favorite plant-based protein.
- Customize the level of spiciness by choosing mild, medium, or hot salsa and adjusting the amount of taco seasoning.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a rarity with how delicious this casserole is), simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave or bake it in the oven until warmed through.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair your Throw Together Mexican Casserole with refreshing sides like a crisp garden salad drizzled with zesty lime dressing or a scoop of guacamole for an extra burst of avocado goodness. For beverages, consider serving classic margaritas or a cool glass of horchata to complement the flavors.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you’re baking it straight from the refrigerator.
Q: Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Certainly! To make this recipe gluten-free, swap out the regular egg noodles for gluten-free egg noodles or your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure that the taco seasoning mix and sauces you use are also gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- (1) 15 oz can sweet corn, drained
- 1 cup mild, chunky salsa
- ¼ cup sliced black olives
- 3 ½ cups cooked egg noodles
- (1) 15.25 oz can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup taco sauce
- 1 (1.25 oz) package taco seasoning mix
- ½ cup tomato sauce
Instructions
Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once evenly browned, drain any excess fat.
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked ground beef, sweet corn, chunky salsa, sliced black olives, cooked egg noodles, kidney beans, taco sauce, taco seasoning mix, and tomato sauce. Mix everything together until well-incorporated.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the casserole is thoroughly cooked and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
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