Mexican Casserole

Mexican Casserole is a bold, flavorful, and comforting one-dish meal that layers seasoned meat, beans, cheese, tortillas, and all the best Tex-Mex flavors. It’s quick to assemble, packed with protein and spice, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s hearty, budget-friendly, and incredibly customizable. I can switch up the protein, make it as spicy or mild as I want, and it always comes out bubbling with melted cheese and bold flavor. It’s a simple way to bring a little fiesta to the dinner table with minimal effort and maximum comfort.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef or ground turkey
onion, diced
garlic, minced
taco seasoning
black beans, drained and rinsed
corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
enchilada sauce or salsa
corn tortillas (or flour tortillas)
shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
optional: sliced olives, jalapeños, green onions, or fresh cilantro

directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet, I cook the ground meat with diced onion and garlic until browned. I stir in taco seasoning, then add beans, corn, and tomatoes. I simmer everything for a few minutes to combine.

3. I spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of the baking dish.

4. I layer torn tortillas across the bottom, followed by a portion of the meat mixture and shredded cheese. I repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese on top.

5. I cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. I let it rest for a few minutes before serving and garnish with my favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 servings. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and bake time is 30 minutes—ready in under an hour.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian version. I’ve also added rice or cooked quinoa to bulk it up. When I want it extra cheesy, I mix cream cheese or sour cream into the meat mixture before layering.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven at 350°F. This casserole also freezes well—I wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble it up to a day in advance, then cover and refrigerate. I bake it fresh when I’m ready to eat.

What kind of tortillas work best?

Corn tortillas give a more authentic texture, but flour tortillas work too and hold up a bit softer.

Is it spicy?

It depends on the salsa or enchilada sauce I use. I control the heat by choosing mild or hot versions and adding jalapeños if I want more spice.

Can I add veggies?

Definitely. I’ve added chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into the meat mixture for extra nutrients.

What toppings go well with this casserole?

I top it with sour cream, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, green onions, or a handful of crushed tortilla chips for crunch.

Conclusion

Mexican Casserole is a flavorful, layered, and satisfying dish that brings comfort and spice to any mealtime. It’s easy to throw together with pantry staples and can be customized for every taste. Whether I serve it fresh from the oven or reheat it for lunch the next day, this casserole is always a hit.

Best Mexican Casserole

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Main Dish, Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Tex-Mex

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Description

Mexican Casserole is a bold and comforting one-dish dinner layered with seasoned meat, black beans, tortillas, cheese, and zesty Tex-Mex flavors. Easy to prep and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping. With gooey cheese and spicy, savory goodness in every bite, this family favorite never disappoints.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 cup enchilada sauce or salsa
• 8–10 corn tortillas (or flour tortillas), torn into pieces
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Optional toppings: sliced olives, jalapeños, green onions, fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet, cook ground meat with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Stir in taco seasoning, then add beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.

4. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

5. Layer torn tortillas, meat mixture, and shredded cheese. Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top.

6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

7. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with desired toppings.

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Notes

• Substitute beef with shredded chicken, cooked lentils, or ground tofu.
• Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra veggies.
• Mix in cream cheese or sour cream for a creamier filling.
• Use gluten-free tortillas for a GF version.
• Spice level depends on your salsa or enchilada sauce—adjust to taste.