Here's Why Salsa Is A Must-Add To Your Casseroles

If meal preparation is something you're into, then casseroles are probably already a part of your weekly dinner rotation, but even if you don't meal prep, you can still benefit from adding casseroles to your meal plan. Casseroles are a one-dish meal that can be prepared ahead of time, so if you have a night you know will be busy, you can make it on a less hectic day. They're also economical because you can make a big meal with very little money, and you will often have leftovers.

If casseroles make you think of boring, bland meals that don't bring a lot of excitement to dinner time, you may need to rethink what a casserole can be. Casseroles can be made with a variety of ingredients, which makes them a versatile meal option that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, and there are many ways to spice them up. For example, if you haven't thought of adding salsa to your casserole, you really should try it.

If you think that salsa only goes in Mexican casseroles, think again. Salsa can be added to all types of casseroles because, like casseroles, salsa is versatile. It adds tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices without much effort, and since there are many varieties of salsa, you can change the flavors of your casseroles. Try a mango salsa with a basic chicken and rice casserole, or add some green goodness to a beef and pasta casserole by adding salsa verde.

Of course, a basic salsa can add a nice zesty flavor to Mexican-inspired casseroles like enchilada casserole, black bean and corn casserole, and taco casserole. However, there are other benefits of using salsa in casseroles than just ramping up the flavor. For one, salsa can add some extra moisture to your casserole, which keeps it from drying out, especially if you add the salsa to a leftover casserole. It can also make the meat or other proteins in your casserole more tender. 

Salsa isn't the only thing you can add to a casserole to bring more flavor or change up the texture. You can also experiment with different sauces, like Alfredo or marinara, to give your casserole a new flavor, or add some crunch by topping your casserole with crushed potato chips, bread crumbs, or French-fried onions. Experiment with spices and herbs for an extra flavor boost. Instead of the basic cheeses that go on top, mix it up and combine cheeses. 

One thing to note about all of these add-ins and toppings, though, is that not all of them will freeze and reheat well, so if you plan to have leftovers or if you are making casseroles to freeze for a later date, you may want to hold off on the potato chip toppings until after you have cooked the casserole. There are many ways you can add more flavor and change up a basic casserole, and casseroles are easy to try out until you find the one that becomes a favorite weeknight meal.