Why Make This Recipe
Mouthwatering Mexican Casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners. This dish combines the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine in a comforting casserole form. It’s easy to make and feeds a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings or casual weeknight meals. With layers of beef, beans, cheese, and tortillas, everyone will love this hearty meal.
How to Make Mouthwatering Mexican Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
- 1 medium Onion (yellow or white preferred)
- 2 cloves Garlic (fresh minced for best results)
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning Mix (or homemade with cumin, chili powder, and paprika)
- 15 oz Black Beans (can be swapped for pinto beans)
- 15 oz Corn Kernels (fresh or frozen can be used)
- 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis (can substitute with plain diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup Salsa (use your favorite salsa)
- 12 pieces Corn Tortillas (cut into quarters)
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or other cheese varieties)
- 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt as a substitute)
- 1/4 cup Sliced Black Olives (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions (plus more for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and salsa. Cook for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the quartered corn tortillas on the bottom. Pour half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with one cup of shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Mouthwatering Mexican Casserole
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with sliced black olives, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with a fresh salad or some tortilla chips for a complete meal.
How to Store Mouthwatering Mexican Casserole
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to two months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until hot.
Tips to Make Mouthwatering Mexican Casserole
- For extra flavor, add some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought taco seasoning.
- Feel free to mix different types of cheese to suit your taste.
Variation
For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add extra beans and vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers. You can also use quinoa or rice as a base instead of tortillas.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole goes well with a simple green salad, tortilla chips, or even some guacamole on the side.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or any other cheese you prefer for this recipe.
Mouthwatering Mexican Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and comforting casserole combining layers of beef, beans, cheese, and tortillas, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
- 1 medium Onion (yellow or white preferred)
- 2 cloves Garlic (fresh minced for best results)
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning Mix (or homemade with cumin, chili powder, and paprika)
- 15 oz Black Beans (can be swapped for pinto beans)
- 15 oz Corn Kernels (fresh or frozen can be used)
- 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis (can substitute with plain diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup Salsa (use your favorite salsa)
- 12 pieces Corn Tortillas (cut into quarters)
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or other cheese varieties)
- 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt as a substitute)
- 1/4 cup Sliced Black Olives (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions (plus more for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and salsa. Cook for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the quartered corn tortillas on the bottom. Pour half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with one cup of shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef mixture. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought taco seasoning. Feel free to mix different types of cheese to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican