Mexican Cassarole

 

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 envelope taco seasoning
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 6 flour tortillas (6 inches)
• 2 cups frozen corn, thawed
• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, sliced ripe olives and sour cream, optional

  Directions

• In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
• Meanwhile, in a microwave-safe bowl, combine beans and salsa. Cover and microwave for 1-2 minutes or until spreadable.
• Place three tortillas in a greased round 2-1/2-qt. baking dish. Layer with half of the beef, bean mixture, corn and cheese; repeat layers.
• Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until cheese is melted. Let stand for 5 minutes. Serve with lettuce, tomatoes, olives and sour cream if desired. Yield: 6 servings.

Editor's Note: This recipe was tested in a 1,100-watt microwave.

Nutrition Facts: 1-1/2 cups (calculated without optional toppings) equals 546 calories, 25 g fat (13 g saturated fat), 102 mg cholesterol, 1,368 mg sodium, 44 g carbohydrate, 5 g fiber, 37 g protein.