This Throw Together Mexican Casserole is a quick and easy dish that’s packed with flavors of the Southwest. With ingredients like ground beef, taco seasoning, and salsa, this casserole delivers all the deliciousness of a classic taco night in a comforting, baked format. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends and family. The best part? It comes together with minimal prep time and is incredibly versatile—you can customize it to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups cooked egg noodles: These noodles provide the base for the casserole, adding a hearty, satisfying texture that soaks up the flavors of the sauce and seasoning.
- 1 pound ground beef: A protein-packed ingredient that brings a savory depth to the dish.
- 15 ounces can of corn, drained: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch to contrast with the other rich ingredients.
- 1 cup salsa: Brings a tangy, spicy flavor that defines the Mexican-inspired theme of this casserole.
- ¼ cup sliced black olives: Adds a salty, briny flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- ¼ cup taco sauce: Enhances the casserole with bold, zesty flavors typical of Mexican cuisine.
- 15 ounces can kidney beans, rinsed and drained well: Adds a hearty, fiber-rich component that makes the casserole more filling and nutritious.
- 1 pack taco seasoning: The essential seasoning that ties all the ingredients together with its blend of spices.
- ½ cup tomato sauce: Adds moisture and a bit of acidity, balancing the richness of the ground beef and cheese.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): A topping that melts into a gooey, delicious layer, adding another level of comfort to the dish.
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a light coating of oil to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Mix in the Ingredients:
- To the cooked ground beef, add the taco seasoning, salsa, taco sauce, tomato sauce, drained corn, kidney beans, and sliced black olives. Stir everything together until well combined, and cook for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Combine with Noodles:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the ground beef mixture. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and other ingredients.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the noodle and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it generously over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra sliced black olives, a dollop of sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, or any of your favorite taco toppings.
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Variations: You can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
- Add More Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers, onions, or diced tomatoes to the ground beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat level by choosing a mild, medium, or hot salsa, and by adding more or less taco seasoning.
- Cheese Lovers: If you love cheese, feel free to mix some shredded cheese into the noodle and beef mixture before baking for an even cheesier casserole.
This Throw Together Mexican Casserole is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for those nights when you need something hearty and comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of ground beef, taco seasoning, and noodles makes it a crowd-pleaser, while the flexibility of the recipe allows you to adapt it based on what you have in your pantry. Whether you top it with cheese or leave it as is, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll come back to time and time again. Enjoy!
