Tex-Mex Casserole

In our cooking group, some speaks French, some speaks English and some speaks both of these languages. These two languages are commonly spoken in Montreal. The T theme can be employed either in English and/or in French. When I sent the instructions to my cooking group about the T theme, I told them, as an example, that they are not allowed to make Apple Pie (as it starts with an A) but they are allowed to make Tarte aux pommes which is simply the French translation of Apple Pie. Our new member, Kristin of Chocolate and Tea, impresses me with her interpretation of this instruction.  She made a firm, crisp and sweet apple tart with almond cream, a classic French tart which we called Tarte aux Pommes à la Normande. You can find this recipe and other mouth-watering desserts on her blog. Check it out!

For the T theme, I made a tex-mex casserole. It is basically the casserole version of nachos using exactly the same ingredients, but with more cheese, more ground beef and more veggies. This reconstruct version of nachos will sure satisfy your family and friends. This recipe is adapted from my favorite cooking show, Best Recipes Ever.

Serves 12

Preparation Time: 15 mins
Cooking Time: 40 mins
Printable Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 lb ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 green pepper, chopped

1 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp dried oregano

Salt and Pepper

1 19oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed

5-6 large tomatoes, diced

1 6oz. can tomato paste

1 cup corn kernels

Baked corn chips, coarsely crumbled

Mozzarella and/or cheddar cheese, grated

1 green onion, thinly sliced

Black olives, sliced

Procedure

1. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook beef until no longer pink. Drain off fat.

2. Add in onion, garlic, green pepper, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until softened.

3. Add in black beans, tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until slightly thickened, about 10 mins. Add in corn kernels.

4. Preheat oven to 375F.

5. Transfer mixture to a 13'' x 9'' baking pan.

6. Top with a layer of corn chips and sprinkle with cheese.  Bake for 15 mins or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with green onions and olives.