Mexican Casserole

When I first set out to make a Mexican casserole, I wanted something that was both comforting and bold. My family loves the vibrant, zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine, and I knew this dish would hit all the right notes. There’s something so satisfying about the combination of seasoned beef, melty cheese, and soft, warm tortillas that feels like a big hug on a plate. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that comes together quickly and fills everyone up—what’s not to love about that?

I remember the first time I made this for my kids on a busy weeknight. We had just gotten home from school, the house was buzzing with energy, and I was in need of something easy but filling. The casserole went straight from the oven to the dinner table, and by the time I looked up, it was gone! Since then, it’s become one of those go-to recipes I make when I want to keep dinner simple but still serve something my family can really enjoy.

Short Description

This Mexican Casserole is a quick and flavorful one-pan dish that combines seasoned beef, melty cheese, and soft tortillas into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a versatile and easy-to-make recipe that the whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Casserole has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for a few simple reasons:

• Quick and easy: It’s a one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy evenings, and the prep is so simple!
• Kid-friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Comforting: It’s like a warm, cheesy embrace with every bite.
• Customizable: You can tweak this recipe to suit your family’s taste—add extra veggies, swap ground turkey for beef, or pile on the toppings!

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this dish is sure to bring everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredients

For the casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 12-16 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Optional add-ons:

• Sliced olives, jalapeños, or chopped cilantro for garnish
• A dollop of guacamole or salsa on the side

Tools & Equipment

• Large skillet
• 13×9-inch casserole dish
• Knife and cutting board (for cutting tortillas)
• Spoon for layering

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a leaner option, feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken.

Step 2: Add taco seasoning, chili beans, Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), and crushed tomatoes to the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.

Tip: You can adjust the heat level by using mild or spicy Rotel, depending on your family’s preference.

Step 3: Spray a 13×9-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Begin by layering a few tortilla quarters on the bottom.

Step 4: Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortillas. Then, sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add another layer of tortillas, followed by the rest of the beef mixture. Spread sour cream evenly over the top layer, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Place the casserole in the oven and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Once it’s golden and bubbly, pull it out and serve hot! You can garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or some crispy tortilla chips on the side.

Notes & Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Swap out the ground beef for black beans or a mixture of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives for a more inclusive dish.
• Add a spicy kick: Throw in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring the heat!
• Gluten-free: Simply swap out regular tortillas for gluten-free corn tortillas.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the sour cream on top—it adds a lovely creamy texture that balances out the spices.

Storage & Reheating

This casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. It also freezes well! Just wrap it tightly and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Mexican casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, chips, or some fresh guacamole. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, or you can make it for a casual gathering with friends. Don’t forget to serve with a side of sour cream, salsa, or even a bit of extra cheese for that extra touch!

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven the next day when you’re ready to bake!

2. Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like black beans will work perfectly.

3. What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, just freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to eat, bake straight from the freezer (add about 10-15 minutes to the cook time).

5. How can I make this spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a few teaspoons of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a fiery twist!

Final Thoughts

Mexican casserole is one of those dishes that not only feeds the family but brings everyone together at the table. It’s easy, flavorful, and totally customizable—perfect for any night of the week. The best part? It’s always a crowd-pleaser, from picky eaters to food adventurers.

Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to hear what variations you’ve made or how your family enjoyed it. If you’re on Pinterest or Instagram, make sure to share your version and tag me—I can’t wait to see it! And don’t forget to pin this recipe for your next busy night—trust me, you’ll be making it again soon. Happy cooking!