Mexican Bean Casserole: A Deliciously Simple Meal
The Mexican Bean Casserole is a fantastic fusion of beans, corn, and savory corned beef, all baked in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s both hearty and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food with a Mexican twist.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
This casserole is incredibly versatile, offering layers of flavor and texture. The mix of kidney beans and Mexican corn provides fiber and nutrients, while the corned beef adds a rich, savory element. The egg and cream mixture binds everything together into a silky, cohesive dish. This recipe is also easy to adapt—whether you want to spice it up with jalapeños or make it vegetarian by swapping out the corned beef for a meat-free alternative.
The casserole can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Plus, with simple ingredients, it’s budget-friendly yet packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish delivers every time.
Ingredients for Mexican Bean Casserole Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tinned red kidney beans | 13 oz |
| Tinned Mexican corn mix | 13 oz |
| Butter | For greasing |
| Corned beef | 13 oz |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Single cream | 1/2 pint |
| Red wine | 1/2 pint |
| Paprika paste | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Paprika powder | To taste |
For additional flavor ideas, check out our Guide to Spices in Mexican Cooking, which covers essential spices to enhance Mexican-inspired recipes.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mexican Bean Casserole
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare Ingredients | Drain the red kidney beans and corn in a colander. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease an ovenproof dish with butter. |
| 2. Layer Ingredients | In the greased baking dish, layer the corned beef, kidney beans, and corn, spreading them evenly to form the casserole base. |
| 3. Make the Egg Mixture | In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, single cream, red wine, and paprika paste. Season with salt, pepper, and additional paprika to taste. |
| 4. Pour Over Casserole | Pour the egg mixture over the layers in the dish, ensuring it spreads evenly across the filling. |
| 5. Bake | Bake in the center of the oven for about 40 minutes, or until the casserole is firm and golden on top. Let cool slightly before serving. |
For another comforting, baked meal, try our German Potato Salad, which adds a tangy, potato-based side to complement the casserole’s richness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 663 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 37 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17 g |
| Cholesterol | 238 mg |
| Sodium | 1195 mg |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Vitamin A | 18% Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 20% Daily Value |
| Iron | 22% Daily Value |
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Bean Casserole Recipe
This Mexican bean casserole recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone seeking a cozy, filling meal. With protein-rich beans, creamy eggs, and flavorful corned beef, it’s a complete dish that offers comfort and satisfaction.
- Quick and Easy
This recipe uses canned ingredients and minimal prep work, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without hassle. - Affordable and Nutritious
Beans and corn are both affordable and nutritious, offering a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The addition of corned beef and cream creates a well-rounded dish that’s delicious and satisfying. - Versatile Serving Options
Mexican bean casserole can be enjoyed on its own or served with various sides. Pair it with a fresh salad, avocado slices, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
For other filling and flavorful recipes, check out our Classic Fudge Recipe as a sweet, rich dessert to complement this savory casserole.
Tips for Making the Best Mexican Bean Casserole
Here are a few tips to help you get the best results with this Mexican bean casserole recipe:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality corned beef and fresh cream enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Add Spice: If you prefer your casserole with a kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the egg mixture.
- Customize the Layers: Feel free to add other layers like sautéed onions or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking: Bake until the casserole is just set to maintain a creamy, custard-like texture. Overbaking can make it dry.
For more tips on preparing hearty baked dishes, see our Guide to Baking Casseroles.
Delicious Variations of Mexican Bean Casserole
This versatile Mexican bean casserole recipe is easy to customize with different ingredients and flavors:
Vegetarian Mexican Bean Casserole
Omit the corned beef and add extra beans or a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas. This variation is just as hearty and perfect for vegetarians.
Spicy Jalapeño Bean Casserole
Add chopped fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra kick. This spicy twist is ideal for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.
Cheese Topped Casserole
Top the casserole with shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or Cheddar before baking for a melted, cheesy layer that adds a satisfying texture.
Tomato Salsa Twist
Add a layer of tomato salsa before the egg mixture to incorporate a zesty, tomato-based flavor. This variation adds a delicious brightness to the casserole.
For more variation ideas, try our Brandy Coffee Recipe for a unique drink pairing to serve alongside the casserole.
Serving Suggestions for Mexican Bean Casserole
This casserole is filling on its own but can be enhanced with a few side options:
- With Avocado or Guacamole: Serve with fresh avocado slices or a side of guacamole for a creamy, refreshing contrast.
- With Tortilla Chips: Crumble some tortilla chips on top for added crunch, or serve on the side for dipping.
- With Sour Cream or Salsa: Drizzle sour cream on top or serve with salsa for extra flavor.
- With a Light Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or our Traditional Greek Salad for a fresh, balanced meal.
For other light sides to serve with this casserole, try our Spicy Fresh Mango Juice, which provides a refreshing, fruity contrast.
How to Store and Reheat Mexican Bean Casserole
This casserole stores well, making it a great option for meal prep:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
- Freezing: Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
For more tips on storing casseroles and meals, explore our Meal Prep and Storage Guide.
FAQs About Mexican Bean Casserole Recipe
Q: Can I use other types of beans?
A: Yes, you can substitute kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or a mix of your favorites for added variety.
Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply replace the corned beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or tofu.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat the casserole?
A: Reheat in the oven for the best texture, but microwaving is also an option if you’re short on time.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Bake it just before serving for the freshest result.
For other easy dinner ideas, explore our Quick and Healthy Dinner Recipes.
Conclusion:
This Mexican Bean Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that balances the richness of corned beef with the zesty flavors of paprika and creamy egg custard. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or prepping for a potluck, it’s a sure hit that’s quick to make and even easier to enjoy. Serve with sides like guacamole or sour cream for extra indulgence!