Au Gratin Mexicali

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound Idahoan Mashed Potatoes (prepared according to package directions)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound Mexican sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Mexican sausage. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the black beans, corn, tomatoes with green chilies, and reserved meat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, combine the prepared mashed potatoes, beef-vegetable mixture, heavy cream, cilantro, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1/8 of recipe):

• Calories: 500
• Fat: 25 grams
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful
• Rich and satisfying
• Perfect for a winter meal or potluck

User Comments:

• "This was a huge hit at our party! Everyone loved the combination of flavors."
• "The Idahoan potatoes gave the dish a smooth and decadent texture."
• "I added some chopped jalapenos for a little extra spice, and it was delicious!"
• "The leftovers were just as good as when it was fresh."
• "A great dish for any occasion."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
• You can also use shredded pepper jack cheese or mozzarella cheese instead of Monterey Jack.
• If you don't have heavy cream, you can use evaporated milk or milk instead.
• Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil if it starts to brown too quickly.