Cobre Valley Casserole

Prepare to savor the flavors of Cobre Valley Casserole—a delightful dish inspired by the rich mining region of southeastern Arizona known as Cobre Valley. “Cobre,” meaning copper in Spanish, reflects the area’s heritage of copper mining. This cherished recipe, enjoyed by the locals for many years, is now brought to you by Carolyn Deming from Miami, Arizona.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 celery rib, chopped
• 1 envelope taco seasoning
• ¼ cup water
• 2 cans (16 ounces each) refried beans
• 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies (optional)
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 large tomato, peeled, seeded, and chopped
• ⅓ cup sliced ripe olives
• 1½ cups crushed tortilla chips

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and celery over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning, water, refried beans, and chopped green chilies (if using) to create a flavorful and hearty filling.
2. Transfer the prepared beef mixture to a greased 11×7-in. baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake the casserole, uncovered, at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until it is heated through, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Once the casserole is heated through, top it with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, chopped tomato, sliced ripe olives, and the crushed tortilla chips, creating a colorful and delectable presentation.

YIELD: 8 Servings

PREP/BAKE TIME: 45 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• For a spicier kick, consider adding the chopped green chilies to the beef mixture to infuse the casserole with additional heat and flavor.

TIPS:

• Customize the casserole by adding your favorite toppings, such as sliced jalapenos, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream, to enhance the taste and presentation.
• Serve Cobre Valley Casserole with a side of fresh green salad or salsa for a satisfying and complete meal.

In conclusion, Cobre Valley Casserole captures the essence of the southeastern Arizona region known for its copper mining heritage, delighting the taste buds with a delicious and comforting dish. This cherished recipe, shared by Carolyn Deming from Miami, Arizona, has been savored by the locals for many years and now graces your table.

The combination of ground beef, onions, and celery cooked to perfection creates a hearty and savory filling that serves as the foundation of the casserole. The addition of taco seasoning and refried beans infuses the dish with delightful Mexican flavors, making it a hit with the whole family.

Once baked to perfection, the casserole is adorned with a delightful array of toppings, including shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, chopped tomatoes, sliced ripe olives, and crushed tortilla chips. The result is a colorful and flavorful presentation that promises a burst of deliciousness in every bite.

For those seeking an extra kick, the optional chopped green chilies can be included, adding a spicy twist to the already delectable casserole.

With its easy preparation and wholesome ingredients, Cobre Valley Casserole is a practical choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Its versatility allows for personalization, so feel free to add your favorite toppings and make this dish your own.

So, bring the spirit of Cobre Valley to your dining table and experience the joy of savoring Cobre Valley Casserole—a delightful and heartwarming dish that celebrates the flavors of Arizona’s copper-rich region.