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–+ servings
Mexican beef and bean bake

Melted Mexican Beef and Bean Bake for Cozy Nights

This melted Mexican beef and bean bake is a heartwarming, customizable dish perfect for busy nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil You can substitute with any cooking oil
  • 1 medium Red Onion Yellow onion works just as well
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh, minced garlic is essential
  • 1 large Green Capsicum (Bell Pepper) Feel free to swap with zucchini or corn
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can be replaced with chicken, turkey, or pork
For the Creamy Layer
  • 1 can Red Kidney Beans (or Black Beans) Choose your favorite beans for flexibility
  • 1 cup Tomato Passata Crushed tomatoes can also be used as a substitute
  • 1/4 cup Pickled Jalapeños Canned green chilies are a milder alternative
  • 2 cups Colby Cheese Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for variation
For the Spice Mix
  • 1 tablespoon Mexican Spice Mix Regular paprika can replace smoked if necessary

Equipment

  • Ovenproof skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. In an ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add red onion, garlic, and capsicum. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink, then stir in the spice mix.
  4. Incorporate the red kidney beans and tomato passata. Mix well and bring to a simmer for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Top with pickled jalapeños and Colby cheese, ensuring an even coverage.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving hot, with optional toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This recipe is a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Customize with different proteins and beans for personal preference.

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