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    Spicy New Mexico-Inspired Casserole

    clock-icon60 minutes
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    Pixicook editorial team

    A hearty and flavorful casserole dish that combines ground beef, rice, beans, corn, cheese, and spices for a comforting meal with a New Mexican twist.

    Ingredients for Spicy New Mexico-Inspired Casserole

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    units in
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    serves
    6 peoplechevron
    serves
    6 peoplechevron

    Ground Beef

    0 lb

    Substitute chevron-down

    Yellow Onion, diced

    each

    Substitute chevron-down

    Garlic Clove, minced

    each

    Substitute chevron-down

    Diced Tomatoes With Green Chilis, undrained

    0 oz

    Substitute chevron-down

    Corn Kernels, frozen or fresh

    cups

    Substitute chevron-down

    Black Beans, drained and rinsed

    0 oz

    Substitute chevron-down

    Taco Seasoning

    packets

    Substitute chevron-down

    Cooked Rice

    cups

    Substitute chevron-down

    Cheddar Cheese, shredded

    cups

    Substitute chevron-down

    Cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

    handful

    Substitute chevron-down

    Salt

    to taste

    Substitute chevron-down

    Pepper

    to taste

    Substitute chevron-down

    How to Make Spicy New Mexico-Inspired Casserole

    1. Brown the Beef

    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

    2. Sauté Aromatics

    Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

    3. Combine Ingredients

    Mix in the undrained tomatoes with green chilis, corn, black beans, and taco seasoning. Cook until everything is heated through, about 5 minutes.

    4. Assemble Dish

    Stir the cooked rice into the skillet, then season with salt and pepper. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

    5. Bake

    Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20 minutes.

    6. Garnish and Serve

    Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

    Variations

    Vegetarian Southwest Casserole

    Replace the meat with black beans or quinoa. Maintain the tomato-based sauce but consider adding puréed roasted sweet potato for creaminess. Include roasted poblano peppers and spinach. Use corn tortillas for layers or a cornbread topping. Use a mix of smoked gouda and pepper jack for a smoky, spicy flavor.

    Cajun Shrimp and Rice Casserole

    Feature shrimp and andouille sausage for a seafood twist. Make a sauce with a Cajun roux base, bell peppers, celery, and onions. Stir in okra and diced tomatoes. Mix in cooked long-grain rice for the base. Sprinkle with a sharp cheddar cheese before baking.

    Mediterranean Lamb Casserole

    Use ground lamb, seasoned with rosemary and mint. Create a sauce with diced tomatoes, olives, and feta brine. Add roasted eggplant and artichoke hearts. Incorporate layers of thinly sliced potatoes or cooked orzo. Crumble feta cheese on top before baking.

    Cheese Switch

    Instead of the traditional cheddar or Monterey Jack, try using pepper jack for extra spice, smoked gouda for a smoky taste, or a Mexican cheese like cotija for authenticity.

    Protein Variations

    Swap out the usual ground beef or chicken for ground turkey or pork for a different flavor profile. Consider adding chorizo for a smoky, spicy kick. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with a mix of black beans and quinoa or crumbled tempeh.


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