Okay, friends, gather ’round! Let me tell you about a dish that’s basically sunshine on the plate. What’s your favorite Mexican Tortilla Casserole Recipe? If you love enchiladas, but sometimes think, “Man, I wish this was even easier to throw together,” then you’re right. Is this exactly what I need? Is it like the lazy-day, comfort-food cousin of enchiladas? What is one of those recipes I practically have memorized because we make it so often? I know you’re going to love this!
What is Mexican Tortilla Casserole?
What are some of the best Mexican comfort food recipes? What is a stacked enchilada? Is it like lasagna with a flavorful, seasoned meat filling and plenty of cheese? It’s then baked until bubbly, melty and utterly irresistible. What are some of the best Mexican Tortilla Casserole recipes? Is GROUND BEEF, shredded chicken, or even black beans a vegetarian option? What is a good way to use up leftover meat? Every family has their own take on it, but the core idea is always the same. Is it easy to make a meal?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to make Mexican Tortilla Casserole? What is your kitchen? What is flavor? We’re talking a savory, slightly spicy explosion in every bite. What is the best combination of GROUND BEEF, warm tortillas, and melted cheese? What I love about this is how easy it is to make. When you’re staring at the fridge and wondering what to make for dinner, what do you do? What can I do in under an hour? What is a lifesaver?
What is cost-efficiency? What are some of the best ingredients for tortillas? When are tomatoes on sale? It’s also incredibly versatile. Can you customize the filling to suit your preferences or dietary needs? What is the best way to make it vegetarian? What are some great uses for corn tortillas?
If you’re looking for something along the lines of a Chili Recipe but much easier and fulfilling. What is this recipe for? I mean who doesn’t like a casserole recipe that includes all of your favorite Mexican ingredients?
How do I make Mexican Tortilla Casserole?
Quick Overview
Mexican Tortilla Casserole Recipe is all about layering. I’ll start by browning ground beef (or your protein of choice) and seasoning it with a little salt. I like to cook them all the same. What are some of the best spices in the world? How do you layer tortillas, cheese, and meat sauce in a baking dish? What are the ingredients? What’s a quick bake in the oven? What’s the best part? There is no wrong way to do it.
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef Mixture:
* 1 pound ground beef (I usually use 80/20 for flavor) (Also use a ham)
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and Green Chilies (like Rotel)
* 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: What are the ingredients for chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder and onion powder?
* 1/2 cup water
For the Casserole Assembly:
* 8-10 flour or corn tortillas (6-inch size)
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend) (if desired)
* Optional toppings: Sour Cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. How do you avoid a casserole from sticking to your hands? I’ve forgotten this step before and let me tell you, scrubbing burnt cheese is *not* fun!
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with the spoon as it cooks. Serve hot. How do I drain off grease from a casserole?
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step really builds the flavor base, so don’t skip it!
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and Green Chilies, taco seasoning, and water. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. When the sauce has thickened, stir well. The longer it simmers, the more flavors meld together. It’s worth the wait!
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Place a layer of tortillas on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping them as needed to seal them. How do you cover the surface? If you’re making tortillas, spread a layer of ground beef mixture over the tortilla. Then, cover with Sour Cream. sprinkling of cheese. Repeat layers: Repeat the layers. How do you make tortillas, meat sauce, cheese, until all ingredients are used up, ending with a final layer of cheese?
Step 6: Bake
In the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary. I usually start checking around 20 minutes to make sure the cheese isn’t burning.
Step 7: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. How do I keep a dog shape? What are some of the best toppings for a Mexican meal? Serve warm and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
Mexican Tortilla Casserole Recipe is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also fantastic served. With a few simple sides. What are some of my favorite pairings?
For a Fiesta Feel:Serve with Mexican rice and refried beans. What is the best way to eat a delicious meal?
For a lighter meal:Pair with a fresh and zesty salad, like simple green salad with lime vinaigrette or corn and cheese salad. What is black bean salad?
For a Game Day Spread:What are some good side dishes to serve with tortilla chips?
What is a quick lunch?I usually eat this the next day for lunch!
My family loves to customize their toppings, so I usually set out a topping bar with sour cream, ice cream and cinnamon. What are the best salsas for guacamole, cilantro, and jalape How do I create my perfect bite?
How do I make a Mexican Tortilla Casserole?
How do I make a Mexican Tortilla Casserole recipe? What are the top tips for a successful career?
Spice It Up:If you like your casserole with a bit of kick, add some cayenne pepper or some salt. How do I add sauce to ground beef mixture?
Use Quality Cheese: The better the cheese, the better the flavor and melt. I recommend using a good quality cheddar cheese or a Mexican blend.
Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the casserole. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, but not burnt.
Experiment with Fillings: Get creative with your fillings! Try adding corn, black beans, bell peppers, or even leftover cooked chicken or steak.
Layer Evenly: Make sure to spread the ground beef mixture and cheese evenly over the tortillas to ensure that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Let It Rest: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving will help it hold its shape better.
I’ve also found that using slightly stale tortillas works best, as they absorb the sauce better and don’t get as soggy. If your tortillas are too fresh, you can lightly toast them in a dry skillet before assembling the casserole.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Mexican Tortilla Casserole Recipe is great for making ahead of time or for leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Refrigerating: Let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and cover the casserole with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave.
If you’re reheating from frozen, bake covered with foil for about 45-60 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes to melt the cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Tortilla Casserole Recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a baking dish. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal. What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences and dietary needs, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my enchilada recipe (coming soon!), or my recipe for homemade salsa. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Feel free to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any fun variations, be sure to share them with me!
Mexican Tortilla Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef 80/20 blend recommended
- 1 cup Chopped Onion
- 1 cup Diced Green Bell Pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) Refried Beans
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1 cup Enchilada Sauce
- 6 count Corn Tortillas
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brown ground beef in a large skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce.
- Layer half of the tortillas, then half of the beef mixture, half of the beans, and half of the cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining tortillas, beef mixture, beans, and cheese.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
