Mexican Casserole – A Family Favorite Comfort Food 🇲🇽🧀
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~450 per serving
Introduction: Why Mexican Casserole Will Be Your New Go-To
Are you looking for a quick, comforting meal that the whole family will love? Mexican Casserole checks all the boxes! It’s layered with ground beef, cheese, beans, and bold spices, and topped with all your favorite Tex-Mex ingredients. Think taco night but with less mess—and even more delicious!
This easy recipe makes the perfect weeknight dinner and can even be prepped in advance. Whether you serve it with tortilla chips, rice, or a crisp green salad, this casserole is sure to become a regular on your meal plan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- One-Pan Meal: Less mess = less stress!
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to your liking.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas (or tortilla chips for layering)
- 1/2 cup salsa (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: jalapeños, avocado slices, diced tomatoes
How to Make Mexican Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Veggies
Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 5 minutes until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Place a layer of tortillas (or crushed tortilla chips) at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Add half of the meat mixture on top, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat the layers—tortillas, meat, and cheese—until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Top with cilantro, sour cream, and any additional toppings you love—like avocado slices or jalapeños. Serve hot with tortilla chips or a side of rice.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice make a perfect pairing.
- With a Side Salad: A crisp side salad balances the richness of the casserole.
- Tortilla Chips on the Side: Perfect for scooping up every cheesy bite!
Tips for the Perfect Mexican Casserole
- Make It Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot salsa to kick up the heat.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Swap out ground beef for shredded chicken for a different twist.
- Go Vegetarian: Skip the meat and double up on beans and veggies.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it fresh the next day.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Mexican Casserole?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and wrap it tightly before baking. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 45-50 minutes.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese work great if you don’t have a Mexican blend on hand.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.