When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the heartwarming embrace of a casserole. The Mexican Beefy Nacho Casserole is a delightful fusion of flavors that transports you straight to your favorite Mexican eatery without leaving the comfort of your home. With layers of seasoned beef, creamy beans, and crunchy chips, all topped with melted cheese, this dish is sure to please a crowd. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively game day gathering, this casserole is the perfect choice for satisfying those savory cravings.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Mexican Beefy Nacho Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The combination of flavors is irresistible, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. Here are a few reasons to keep this recipe in your rotation:

Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required, as everything cooks in one dish.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Feed a Crowd: This dish is hearty and filling, ideal for gatherings or meal prep.
Leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

What Goes Into Mexican Beefy Nacho Casserole

To create this scrumptious casserole, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb 90% lean ground beef
1/2 cup salsa, your preferred
4 scallions, white and green parts chopped and separated
1 clove garlic, chopped
2 (15 oz) cans white beans, or a combination of black and pinto beans
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon paprika
12 oz Doritos chips, or restaurant-style tortilla chips
3 cups pepper Jack, cheddar, or a combination of both
Green scallions, chopped tomatoes, sour cream, and lime for serving

Cook’s Kit

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these essential items:

Large Skillet: Perfect for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables.
Mixing Bowl: To combine your beans and spices.
Casserole Dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
Spatula: For mixing and serving.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Stepwise Method: Mexican Beefy Nacho Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add the chopped garlic and the white parts of the scallions to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Beans and Spices

Stir in the white beans, salsa, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In the casserole dish, layer half of the Doritos chips evenly on the bottom. Pour half of the beef mixture over the chips, followed by a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, beef mixture, and top with the rest of the cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with chopped green scallions, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, consider these substitutions:

Ground Beef: Swap for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative.
Beans: Use lentils or chickpeas if you prefer a different legume.
Cheese: For dairy-free options, use plant-based cheese or omit it altogether.
Salsa: Make your own fresh salsa to control ingredients and spice levels.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Even the best chefs can make mistakes! Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Watery Casserole: If your mixture seems too wet, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce excess liquid.
Burnt Cheese: If your cheese is browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil for part of the baking time.
Too Spicy: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of chili powder or choose a milder salsa.
Uneven Layers: When layering, be sure to spread each layer evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.

Best Ways to Store

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely because this casserole is so filling), here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Final Bite

This Mexican Beefy Nacho Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to become a family favorite. With its layers of seasoned beef, creamy beans, crunchy chips, and melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delicious dish, and enjoy a taste of Mexico at home. Bon appétit!