Description
A healthy and flavorful Mexican casserole made with lean ground turkey, black and pinto beans, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Topped with reduced-fat Mexican cheese and optional fresh cilantro, this casserole is perfect for a wholesome family meal that can also be enjoyed as leftovers in a wrap.
Ingredients
Meat & Protein
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
Vegetables & Beans
- 15 ounces black beans, rinsed and drained
- 15 ounces pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 4-5 plum tomatoes, chopped and seeds removed
- 1 teaspoon chopped chili peppers
- ½ cup frozen corn
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro for topping (optional)
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder (reduce to 1/8 teaspoon if less spicy desired)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ⅛ teaspoon coriander
Dairy
- ¼ cup reduced fat Mexican blend cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and brown turkey: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the lean ground turkey and cook, stirring frequently, until it is no longer pink and fully cooked through.
- Add spices and beans: Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, red pepper flakes, and coriander. Add a splash of water to help distribute the spices evenly. Stir in the rinsed black beans, pinto beans, diced plum tomatoes (with seeds removed), chopped chili peppers, and frozen corn. Mix everything thoroughly and let it cook together for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the mixture into a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reduced-fat Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.
- Add toppings and serve: Optionally, crumble whole grain tortillas on top for added texture (especially good for kids). Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh flavor. Enjoy this casserole as a wholesome dinner or use leftovers in wraps the next day.
Notes
- To reduce spiciness, adjust the chili powder to 1/8 teaspoon or omit red pepper flakes.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure tortillas are labeled gluten-free or skip the tortilla topping.
- Leftovers can be repurposed as a filling for wraps or burritos.
- Using reduced-fat cheese keeps the dish lighter but still flavorful.
- Can substitute ground turkey with lean chicken or plant-based alternative for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
