Name: Southwestern Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 2 cups (8 ounces) uncooked elbow macaroni; 2 pounds ground beef; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste; 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles, drained; 1-1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Short Description
This Southwestern Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines elbow macaroni, ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and zesty seasonings, all topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese and spicy jalapeños. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and even better when enjoyed as leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole brings together the best of southwestern flavors, with a savory blend of ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, spiced up with chili powder and cumin. The melted cheese on top adds creaminess and richness, while the sliced jalapeños provide a touch of heat and extra flavor. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner, and it freezes beautifully for later use!

Ingredients

2 cups (8 ounces) uncooked elbow macaroni
2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles, drained
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 jalapeño peppers, sliced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, tomato paste, green chiles, salt, chili powder, cumin, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Drain the cooked macaroni and stir it into the beef mixture.
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Transfer the macaroni mixture into 2 greased 2-quart baking dishes.
Top each casserole with the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and sliced jalapeños.
Cover the baking dishes with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover the dishes and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
Serve one casserole and let the second cool before covering and freezing for up to 3 months.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add More Veggies: Add corn, bell peppers, or zucchini to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Version: For a spicier casserole, add more jalapeños or toss in a few dashes of hot sauce.
Use Ground Turkey: Replace the ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner version of this dish.
Cheese Swap: Use other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and add extra beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, for a meatless version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then cover and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through. You can also microwave individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

2. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells if you don’t have elbow macaroni.

3. How can I make this casserole spicier?

For more heat, add extra jalapeños or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the beef mixture. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

4. Can I use canned chili beans instead of kidney beans?

Yes, you can substitute kidney beans with chili beans, black beans, or pinto beans for a different flavor.

5. Can I freeze this dish after baking?

Yes, you can freeze the entire casserole after baking. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing to preserve its texture.

6. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but be sure to dice them and cook them down until they release their juices before adding them to the beef mixture.

7. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it’s bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden. You can also check by inserting a fork to ensure the center is heated through.

8. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with more beans or veggies like corn or bell peppers.

9. Can I add cheese on top before baking?

Yes, feel free to sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking for a more indulgent, cheesy crust.

10. How can I make this dish milder?

To make it milder, use fewer jalapeños or skip the chili powder and crushed red pepper flakes. You can also use a mild cheese like mozzarella in place of Monterey Jack.

Conclusion

This Southwestern Casserole is a deliciously comforting, one-pan meal that’s full of flavor. With a combination of savory ground beef, zesty tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a touch of spice, it’s a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Plus, it freezes well, so you can have a tasty meal ready to go for busy days ahead!