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My kitchen fills with the coziest smell when this casserole bakes. I started making it on those crazy busy days when I needed something quick but filling. The combination of spiced beef hearty beans and gooey cheese never fails to bring my family running to the table. I bet it'll become your dinner savior too.
Your New Favorite Dinner
I keep coming back to this recipe because it just works. The prep takes minutes then the oven does all the work. My kids love the cheesy top while I love how everything cooks in one dish meaning fewer dishes to wash. You can spice it up or tone it down whatever suits your taste.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef; draining excess fat keeps the dish light.
- Beans: 1 can of kidney, pinto, or black beans, rinsed and drained.
- Salsa: 1 cup of your favorite salsa, mild or spicy.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz), regular or fire-roasted for extra flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups freshly grated cheddar for the perfect melty topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it into small pieces. Cook for 8-10 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Sauce
- Blend 1 can of diced tomatoes in a blender until smooth. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, blended tomatoes, 1 cup of salsa, and 1 can of rinsed beans. Mix thoroughly.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the beef mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake the Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to let the cheese brown and bubble.
- Let It Rest
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to set before serving.
Make It Your Own
We love piling on crunchy tortilla chips and dollops of cool sour cream. Sometimes I serve it over rice or add fresh toppings like creamy avocado zesty lime and bright cilantro. A simple green salad on the side makes it feel like a real family feast.
Kitchen Secrets
Make sure to drain that beef really well nobody likes a greasy casserole. Skip the pre-shredded cheese grab a block and grate it yourself it melts so much better. Play around with different salsas until you find your perfect heat level.
Pure Comfort Food
This casserole never lets me down whether it's just us on a Tuesday night or friends dropping by unexpectedly. Everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied. Top it your way serve it with your favorite sides this recipe is all about making memories around good simple food.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it'll be cold.
- → What can I serve with this casserole?
- This casserole pairs well with a green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with cornbread or rice for a heartier meal.
- → Can I freeze this casserole?
- This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- → Can I use different types of beans?
- Yes, you can substitute the kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or a mixture. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before using.
- → Why do I need to puree the tomatoes?
- Pureeing the tomatoes creates a smoother sauce that coats the ingredients better. It also helps prevent the casserole from being too watery.