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## **Instructions**
### **1. Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil.
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### **2. Cook the Ground Meat:**
– In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of **olive oil** over medium heat.
– Add the **diced onion** and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until softened and translucent.
– Add the **ground beef** (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
– Stir in the **taco seasoning** and a splash of water (as directed on the seasoning packet) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the seasoning is well incorporated.
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### **3. Add the Casserole Ingredients:**
– Add the **salsa**, **black beans**, and **corn** to the meat mixture and stir well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
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### **4. Layer the Casserole:**
– In the prepared casserole dish, spread half of the **crushed tortilla chips** to cover the bottom.
– Spoon half of the meat and bean mixture over the chips, spreading it out evenly.
– Sprinkle **1 cup of cheese** (cheddar and/or Mexican blend) over the meat layer.
– Add another layer of **crushed tortilla chips** on top of the cheese, followed by the remaining meat mixture.
– Top with the remaining cheese, spreading it out evenly over the top.
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### **5. Bake the Casserole:**
– Cover the casserole dish with **aluminum foil** and bake for about **20-25 minutes**. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional **5-10 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden.
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### **6. Serve and Enjoy:**
– Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes to set.
– Serve the casserole with optional toppings like **sour cream**, **salsa**, **jalapeños**, **green onions**, and fresh **cilantro**.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
This Mexican Casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but you can pair it with a variety of side dishes for an extra special dinner:
– **Mexican Rice**: Fluffy rice with a hint of lime and cilantro pairs perfectly with the rich and cheesy casserole.
– **Guacamole**: A creamy, zesty guacamole will complement the casserole’s bold flavors.
– **Refried Beans**: Serve with a side of creamy refried beans for an authentic Mexican touch.
– **Simple Salad**: A fresh side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the casserole.
– **Tortillas**: Serve with warm **flour tortillas** or **corn tortillas** for scooping up the casserole or making mini wraps.
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## **Tips for Success**
🌟 **Customize the Meat**: Swap ground beef for **ground chicken**, **turkey**, or even **ground pork** for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, use **black beans** or **lentils** as the protein source.
🌟 **Adjust the Heat**: If you like a little more spice, add **jalapeños** to the meat mixture or sprinkle **cayenne pepper** or **chili flakes** over the top before baking.
🌟 **Use Store-Bought Tortilla Chips**: If you’re in a pinch, store-bought **tortilla chips** work just as well. Just be sure to crush them into bite-sized pieces before layering them in the casserole.
🌟 **Add More Veggies**: If you want to sneak in some extra vegetables, add **bell peppers**, **zucchini**, or even **spinach** to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
🌟 **Make It Ahead**: This casserole is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and bake the next day. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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## **Why This Recipe Works**
**Mexican Casserole** is an all-in-one meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. The layers of **seasoned meat**, **beans**, **corn**, and **cheese** create a rich, satisfying dish that is bursting with flavor. The **tortilla chips** add a wonderful crunch, while the melted cheese ties everything together into a comforting, hearty casserole.
What makes this recipe truly special is how adaptable it is. You can adjust the level of spice, swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, and even make it vegetarian if desired. It’s also a great way to use up leftover taco fillings or beans from previous meals. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or looking for a dish that can feed a crowd, this casserole will be a hit every time.
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## **Final Thoughts**
**Mexican Casserole** is a savory, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves the flavors of Mexican cuisine. From the seasoned meat to the gooey cheese and crispy chips, every bite is packed with bold, comforting flavors. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
So, next time you want a hearty, flavorful meal that will please everyone at the table, give this **Mexican Casserole** a try. It’s an effortless yet impressive dish that brings everyone together around the table for a truly delicious experience.
Enjoy! 🌮🧀🍽
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