MEXI-MAC CASSEROLE

Mexi-Mac Casserole image

I typically have most of the ingredients for this dish in my pantry. Green chiles give it a little bite, but it's easy to swap in a can of spicier tomatoes to turn up the heat. -Jan Conklin, Stevensville, Montana

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 55m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 package (7-1/4 ounces) macaroni and cheese dinner mix
1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes with mild green chiles
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles
1 envelope reduced-sodium taco seasoning
2-1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15-1/4 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
1 can (7-3/4 ounces) Mexican-style hot tomato sauce
1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips

Steps:

Prepare macaroni and cheese mix according to package directions. Meanwhile, cook the beef, onion and garlic in a Dutch oven over medium heat until meat is no longer pink, breaking meat into crumbles; drain., Add the diced tomatoes, green chiles and taco seasoning. Stir in 2 cups cheese, beans, corn, tomato sauce and prepared macaroni and cheese dinner., Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish; sprinkle with chips and remaining cheese., Bake, uncovered, at 350° until bubbly, 30-35 minutes. , Freeze option: Cool unbaked casserole; cover and freeze. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake casserole as directed, increasing time as necessary until heated through and a thermometer inserted in center reads 165°.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 555 calories, Fat 27g fat (13g saturated fat), Cholesterol 101mg cholesterol, Sodium 1330mg sodium, Carbohydrate 33g carbohydrate (11g sugars, Fiber 6g fiber), Protein 33g protein.