Mexican Casserole recipe

There’s something truly special about a dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table with minimal fuss. This Mexican Casserole recipe delivers just that; it’s a warm hug in a baking dish. Imagine layers of seasoned ground beef, tender beans, sweet corn, and soft tortilla pieces all baked under a blanket of melted, golden cheese.

I love making this Mexican Casserole recipe on busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover tortillas. Plus, everyone in my family devours it, which is always a win!

Why I Love This Mexican Casserole recipe

This Mexican Casserole recipe is my go-to for so many reasons!

• It’s incredibly fast.
• It uses simple ingredients.
• The flavors are so satisfying.
• It’s perfect for weeknights.
• It pleases everyone at the table.

It truly makes busy evenings so much easier and tastier!

Mexican Casserole recipe Ingredients

The magic of this Mexican Casserole recipe comes from its simple, humble ingredients. They come together beautifully. This dish is a celebration of easy, delicious flavors we all love.

Ground Beef or Turkey: This forms the savory base of our casserole. Feel free to choose your favorite.
Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
Black Beans: These add heartiness and a lovely texture.
Corn: Brings a touch of sweetness and color.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: A key flavor booster. It adds a mild kick.
Tomato Sauce: Helps bind everything together.
Taco Seasoning Mix: This packet contains all the essential Mexican spices. It’s pure flavor magic.
Water: Thins the mixture slightly.
Corn Tortillas: They soak up the flavors beautifully. They become wonderfully tender.
Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend: For that gooey, golden topping we all adore.

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t have black beans? Kidney beans work great too! For extra spice, swap the regular diced tomatoes with green chilies for ones with jalapeños. If you’re out of taco seasoning, you can make your own blend. Use chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This Mexican Casserole recipe is quite forgiving! You can also use whole wheat tortillas for a slightly healthier twist. Exact amounts for all these wonderful ingredients are in the recipe card below.

How to Make This Mexican Casserole recipe

Let’s get cooking! This easy Mexican Casserole recipe comes together quickly. Follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First, preheat your oven to 375°F. This is a perfect baking temperature. Then, lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish. This stops the casserole from sticking. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference for this delicious ground beef casserole.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Use medium-high heat. Add one pound of ground beef or turkey. Add one chopped onion too. Cook this mixture. Break up the meat as it cooks. You want it nice and browned. Drain off any extra fat. This keeps the casserole from being greasy.

Step 3: Simmering Flavors

Now, stir in the other yummy ingredients. Add the rinsed black beans. Add the drained corn next. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Pour in the tomato sauce. Add the taco seasoning mix. Finally, add 1/2 cup of water. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Let it cook gently for about 5 minutes. This lets all those wonderful flavors meld together. It makes for a truly tasty taco casserole.

Step 4: Layering the Casserole

Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture. Put it on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This is the first layer of our amazing Mexican Casserole recipe. Next, arrange about one-third of your corn tortilla pieces. Place them right over the meat mixture. Then, sprinkle about one-third of the shredded cheese. Use your Mexican cheese blend.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers

Now, repeat those layers. Add another layer of the meat mixture. Follow this with more tortillas. Then, add another layer of cheese. You’ll end with a final layer of the meat mixture. Make sure this top layer is covered generously with the remaining cheese. This creates that perfect, bubbly topping for your easy casserole.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes. You want it to be bubbly. The cheese should be melted and golden brown. Keep an eye on it. Ovens can vary slightly.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let it stand. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the Mexican Casserole recipe to set up. It makes serving much easier. Then, serve it warm and enjoy!

How to Store Your Mexican Casserole recipe

Leftover Mexican Casserole recipe is a treasure! Store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate any portions for up to 3 days. Reheat leftovers easily. Use your oven or microwave. If freezing, cool completely first. Wrap portions tightly. Frozen casserole will last about 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for a Perfect Mexican Casserole recipe

• For extra flavor complexity, use a mix of cheeses.
• Don’t skip resting the casserole.
• Toast the tortilla strips slightly beforehand.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before layering.
• Add a dollop of sour cream for serving.
• Consider adding a layer of refried beans.
• Chop tortillas into bite-sized pieces.

Making this easy Mexican Casserole recipe is a breeze with the right tools. But don’t worry if you don’t have everything. Most home kitchens have what you need. Here’s a quick rundown.

• Large skillet: For browning the meat. A non-stick pan works well too.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: For baking the casserole. Any similar-sized oven-safe dish will do.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
• Spatula or spoon: For stirring and layering.

Serving Suggestions for Your Mexican Casserole recipe

• Serve warm with a side of salsa.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
• Offer a side of guacamole or avocado slices.
• Enjoy with a refreshing margarita or lime agua fresca.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Mexican Casserole recipe

Can I make this Mexican Casserole recipe ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole the day before. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This ensures it’s hot and bubbly all the way through.

What can I substitute for ground beef in this Mexican Casserole recipe?

This easy casserole is very versatile. You can easily substitute ground turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using crumbled firm tofu or a mixture of lentils and mushrooms. These are great swaps for a hearty meatless Mexican Casserole.

How long does this Mexican Casserole recipe last in the refrigerator?

Leftovers of this delicious Mexican Casserole recipe will keep well in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Can I make this Mexican Casserole recipe in a slow cooker?

While this recipe is designed for the oven, you could adapt it for a slow cooker. Brown the meat mixture first as directed. Then layer it in the slow cooker with tortillas and cheese. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Keep an eye on it to prevent drying out. This is a fun way to make a different kind of taco casserole.

Print