Name: Cheesy Mexican Beef and Bean Bake: A Comforting Crowd-Pleaser
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: Main Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 red onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green capsicum (bell pepper), diced into 1cm pieces; 500g (1 lb) ground beef (mince); 1 can (400g / 14 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained; 1 cup tomato passata; 1/3 cup pickled jalapeños (adjust to taste); 1 1/2 cups shredded Colby cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.); Mexican Spice Mix: 1 1/2 tsp cumin powder; 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); 1 tsp cooking/kosher salt (adjust to taste)

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If you’re craving bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious, look no further than this cheesy Mexican beef and bean bake. Imagine tender beef, hearty beans, and vibrant spices bubbling together under a blanket of melted cheese—it’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to steal the spotlight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about Mexican-inspired dishes—they’re full of flavor, simple to make, and bring people together. This cheesy Mexican beef and bean bake combines the best of all worlds: juicy ground beef, zesty spices, and creamy cheese, all baked to perfection. Plus, it’s highly customizable and can be served in so many ways, making it perfect for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine.

Ingredients for Cheesy Mexican Beef and Bean Bake

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Olive oil	2 tbsp	Use extra virgin for a richer flavor.
Red onion	1, finely chopped	Adds sweetness and depth.
Garlic	2 cloves, minced	Fresh garlic enhances the aroma.
Green capsicum (bell pepper)	1, diced (1cm pieces)	Any color works for variety.
Ground beef (mince)	500g (1 lb)	Use lean beef for a healthier option.
Kidney beans or black beans	400g (14 oz) can, drained	Substitute with pinto or mixed beans.
Tomato passata	1 cup	Provides a rich tomato base.
Pickled jalapeños	1/3 cup	Adjust for heat preference.
Colby cheese (shredded)	1 1/2 cups	Substitute with cheddar or Monterey Jack.

Mexican Spice Mix

Spice	Amount	Notes
Cumin powder	1 1/2 tsp	Adds earthy, smoky flavor.
Smoked paprika	1 1/2 tsp	Sub with regular paprika if unavailable.
Garlic powder	1 tsp	Can swap with onion powder.
Onion powder	1 tsp	Enhances savory depth.
Dried oregano	1 tsp	Balances the spice with herbal notes.
Cayenne pepper	1/2 tsp	Sub with black pepper for less heat.
Cooking/kosher salt	1 tsp	Adjust to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or 180°C for fan-forced ovens.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped red onion, minced garlic, and diced capsicum. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring even browning.
Once the meat is no longer pink, sprinkle in the Mexican spice mix. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and release their aroma.

Step 4: Add Beans and Tomato Base

Stir in the drained beans and tomato passata. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Top with Jalapeños and Cheese

Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet. Sprinkle the pickled jalapeños across the surface, then generously top with shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Scoop portions into bowls and serve with tortilla chips, tacos, or your favorite Mexican sides.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Mexican Beef and Bean Bake

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melt.
Customize the Heat: If you love spice, add extra cayenne pepper or use spicier jalapeños. For a milder dish, reduce the amount of jalapeños.
Oven-Proof Skillet: If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before adding cheese and baking.
Add Extra Veggies: For added nutrition, throw in diced zucchini, corn, or chopped spinach.

Creative Serving Ideas

1. Nacho Style

Serve the bake with a side of crispy tortilla chips for dipping and scooping. It’s a perfect snack for game nights or parties.

2. DIY Tacos

Spoon the cheesy beef and bean mixture into soft tortillas. Add lettuce, salsa, and sour cream for a quick taco dinner.

3. Over Rice

Transform this bake into a hearty meal by serving it over steamed rice or cilantro-lime rice.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Use the beef and bean mixture as a filling for hollowed-out bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender for a creative twist.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	~350 kcal
Protein	25g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fiber	5g

FAQs About Cheesy Mexican Beef and Bean Bake

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the beef and bean mixture, store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, and bake with cheese just before serving.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the bake cool completely, then transfer portions to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. What’s the best cheese to use?

Colby cheese melts beautifully, but you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Mexican cheeses.

4. How do I make it vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or additional beans for a vegetarian version.

5. Can I make this spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or use diced fresh chili peppers for extra heat. You can also drizzle hot sauce over the top.

6. What can I serve with this bake?

Pair it with guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Make It Tonight!

Cheesy Mexican beef and bean bake is a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. Its bold flavors, gooey cheese, and hearty texture make it an irresistible choice for any occasion. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this comforting, flavorful dish tonight!