Spicy Chipotle Beef Casserole

Name: Spicy Chipotle Beef Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup frozen corn kernels; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 30 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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Welcome to a dish that’s bound to spice up your dinner table: the Spicy Chipotle Beef Casserole. This recipe combines hearty beef, zesty chipotle, and a medley of fresh flavors to create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect for those nights when you crave something with a kick!

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Ingredients for Spicy Chipotle Beef Casserole

The magic of this dish starts with ground beef, providing a hearty and savory base. Onion and garlic add aromatic depth, while black beans contribute protein and fiber. Diced tomatoes with green chilies bring acidity and a mild kick, complemented by sweet corn kernels. For the spicy element, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce lend their smoky heat. Ground cumin and smoked paprika add warmth and complexity. Corn tortillas act as the starchy layer, soaking up all the flavors, while shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey deliciousness. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal finish.

Tips & Tricks

If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of **chipotle peppers** or opt for mild **diced tomatoes**.
To save time, prep the ingredients in advance, like chopping the onion and garlic.
For a crispier top layer, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines alongside a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. You might also enjoy it with a side of creamy avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream to cool down the spice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for beef.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?: Omit the beef and double the black beans. Add some sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?: Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven until heated through.

Spicy Chipotle Beef Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's warming up, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook until it's nicely browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Let them mingle in the pan until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma.

Now, it's time to introduce the rest of the gang: stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and chipotle peppers. Sprinkle the mixture with ground cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Next, take a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and lay half of the corn tortilla strips on the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas. Don’t rush this step; you want an even layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, then repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top to finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Combines bold flavors with minimal effort — all in one dish.
A perfect balance of heat, savory, and a hint of sweetness.
Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 cup frozen corn kernels

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped

2 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

8 corn tortillas, cut into strips

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, then add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Layer half of the tortilla strips at the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

5. Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, sprinkle with half of the cheese, then repeat the layers.