### Quick and Simple Mexican Casserole

If you’re searching for a meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, look no further than this Quick and Simple Mexican Casserole. Bursting with vibrant flavors and comforting textures, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty, satisfying dinner ready in no time. Let’s dive into why this casserole is a must-try and how you can whip it up effortlessly.

#### Why You'll Love This Mexican Casserole

1. **Flavorful and Satisfying**: Combining seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and gooey cheese, this casserole delivers a taste explosion in every bite. It’s a perfect blend of savory, spicy, and cheesy goodness.

2. **Quick to Make**: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of around 30 minutes, this casserole is ideal for busy weeknights when you need a meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

3. **Versatile**: Customize this casserole to suit your preferences. Add extra veggies, use different types of cheese, or adjust the spice level to make it your own.

4. **Crowd-Pleaser**: Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual get-together, this dish is sure to be a hit with its appealing flavors and comforting textures.

#### Ingredients:

- **1 pound ground beef**
- **1 onion**, chopped
- **1 bell pepper**, chopped
- **1 can (15 oz) black beans**, drained and rinsed
- **1 cup salsa**
- **1 cup corn kernels** (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- **1 teaspoon chili powder**
- **1 teaspoon cumin**
- **1/2 teaspoon garlic powder**
- **1/2 teaspoon onion powder**
- **Salt and pepper**, to taste
- **2 cups shredded cheddar cheese**
- **Tortilla chips** or **tortilla strips** (optional, for topping)
- **Chopped cilantro** (for garnish, optional)
- **Sour cream** and **sliced jalapeños** (optional, for serving)

#### Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven**:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

2. **Cook the Beef Mixture**:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the black beans, salsa, corn, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

3. **Assemble the Casserole**:
- Transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

4. **Bake**:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. **Add Final Touches**:
- If desired, top with crushed tortilla chips or tortilla strips for added crunch.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.

6. **Serve**:
- Serve the casserole hot with optional sides like sour cream and sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.

#### Tips for Success:

- **Customize Your Ingredients**: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced tomatoes, zucchini, or spinach. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
- **Adjust the Spice Level**: Modify the amount of chili powder and add hot sauce or diced jalapeños if you prefer a spicier dish.
- **Make Ahead**: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

#### Variations:

- **Vegetarian Mexican Casserole**: Substitute the ground beef with extra beans or lentils, and add additional vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for a meat-free version.
- **Southwestern Style**: Incorporate ingredients like black olives, green chilies, or a layer of cooked rice for a Southwestern twist.

### Final Thoughts

This Quick and Simple Mexican Casserole is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection, offering a delicious meal with minimal effort. Its flavorful combination of ingredients and ease of preparation make it a go-to option for busy days or when you simply want a comforting, homemade dinner. Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures that make this dish a crowd-pleaser every time.

Happy cooking!

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