Southwest Beef and Bean Bake with Cheddar and Crispy Tortilla Strips

Introduction

Southwest Beef and Bean Bake is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together bold, southwestern flavors in a warm, savory casserole. This meal is a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something filling, flavorful, and satisfying with minimal cleanup. Packed with seasoned ground beef, black beans, and spicy chiles, all covered in melted cheddar and topped with crispy tortilla strips, each bite has a delightful mix of textures and flavors. To finish it off, a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions add freshness and a hint of tanginess that complements the spicy richness of the bake.

Ingredients

Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel recommended)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional, for extra texture)
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)

Topping

• 4-6 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt to taste

Garnish

• Sour cream, for serving
• 2-3 green onions, sliced thinly

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook for about 5-6 minutes or until browned.
3. Once the beef is no longer pink, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning, chili powder, and cumin powder. Mix well to coat the beef with the spices, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Beans

1. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and corn to the skillet with the beef mixture.
2. Add the diced red bell pepper, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
3. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to slightly thicken. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the beef and bean mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef and bean mixture.

Step 4: Prepare Crispy Tortilla Strips

1. Place the tortilla strips in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat.
2. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and a little salt for added flavor.
3. Spread the tortilla strips evenly on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Carefully remove the casserole from the oven.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve

1. Scatter the crispy tortilla strips over the top of the casserole.
2. Garnish with dollops of sour cream and sliced green onions.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Notes

• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder or add chopped jalapeños for extra heat if you prefer a spicier dish.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend works well, feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a bit more kick.
• Tortilla Strips: If you’re short on time, use store-bought tortilla chips instead of making your own tortilla strips.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of guacamole, fresh salsa, or pico de gallo.
• A simple salad with avocado and lime dressing pairs well to lighten up the meal.
• For an extra festive touch, add some sliced jalapeños or fresh cilantro on top.

Tips

• Meal Prep: Make the beef and bean mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply add cheese and bake.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative, or use extra beans like kidney or pinto for a hearty, meat-free version.
• Leftovers: This bake reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 22g
• Sodium: 750mg (varies with seasoning)

Conclusion

The Southwest Beef and Bean Bake with Cheddar and Crispy Tortilla Strips is a savory, filling, and easily customizable casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With its bold southwestern flavors, melty cheese, and crisp tortilla topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with fresh garnishes and enjoy a wholesome meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table.

Southwest Beef and Bean Bake with Cheddar and Crispy Tortilla Strips

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• Author: Imili Johnson
• Total Time: 45 minutes

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Ingredients

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Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel recommended)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional, for extra texture)
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)

Topping

• 4–6 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt to taste

Garnish

• Sour cream, for serving
• 2–3 green onions, sliced thinly

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook for about 5-6 minutes or until browned.
3. Once the beef is no longer pink, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning, chili powder, and cumin powder. Mix well to coat the beef with the spices, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Beans

1. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and corn to the skillet with the beef mixture.
2. Add the diced red bell pepper, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
3. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to slightly thicken. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the beef and bean mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef and bean mixture.

Step 4: Prepare Crispy Tortilla Strips

1. Place the tortilla strips in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat.
2. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and a little salt for added flavor.
3. Spread the tortilla strips evenly on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Carefully remove the casserole from the oven.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve

1. Scatter the crispy tortilla strips over the top of the casserole.
2. Garnish with dollops of sour cream and sliced green onions.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 420
• Sodium: 750mg
• Protein: 22g