Description
Cheesy Beef and Jalapeño Casserole
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup salsa
2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
Fresh cilantro for garnish
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Instructions
1. Cook the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
Add the onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens.
2. Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a casserole dish, spread the beef mixture evenly.
Pour the salsa over the beef and spread a layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
Arrange the sliced jalapeños evenly across the top.
3. Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Top with sour cream and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof casserole. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles. Once no pink remains, drain any excess fat. Reduce heat to medium, add the chopped onion, and cook for 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for one more minute until fragrant. Transfer this beef mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Pour the salsa over the beef and stir gently to combine. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the entire surface. Finally, arrange the jalapeño slices on top of the cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden at the edges.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. For a refreshing contrast, serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. It’s also excellent alongside warm cornbread, tortilla chips for scooping, or a scoop of cool guacamole. To stretch it further for a crowd, offer soft flour or corn tortillas for making quick tacos or burritos with the casserole filling.
How-to Summary
Brown beef with aromatics and spices. Transfer to a baking dish and mix with salsa. Top generously with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Add jalapeño slices for heat. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. Finish with dollops of sour cream and fresh cilantro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
How can I control the spiciness? For milder heat, remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeños before slicing. For more heat, leave the seeds in or add a diced serrano pepper to the beef mixture.
What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative work well. Adjust cooking times as needed.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze this casserole? It freezes best before baking. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not skip draining the excess fat from the cooked beef, as this can make the final dish greasy. Second, ensure your cheese is freshly shredded from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly. Third, do not overbake, as this can cause the cheese to separate and become oily. Remove it as soon as it’s bubbly. Finally, letting the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking makes it easier to slice and serve.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef and Jalapeño Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a kick. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Enjoy the delicious layers of flavor and the perfect blend of cheesy, savory, and spicy in every bite.