Mexican Casserole is a flavorful, hearty dish that combines the best of Mexican cuisine into one easy-to-make casserole. With layers of seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and tortillas, this dish is packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. It’s the perfect dinner for busy nights when you want something filling and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. You can customize it to suit your tastes, making it a great option for family meals or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines all the vibrant flavors of Mexican food in a single casserole. The combination of seasoned ground beef or chicken, black beans, corn, and tortillas creates a comforting yet exciting meal. Topped with gooey melted cheese, it’s a satisfying one-pan dish that’s perfect for both adults and kids alike. This casserole is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for leftovers, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade seasoning)

• 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), drained

• 10 small corn or flour tortillas, cut into quarters

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend)

• 1 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• 1 cup salsa (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. Add the ground beef (or chicken/turkey) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

5. Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix well and cook for 3-4 minutes, until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Layer the bottom of the prepared casserole dish with half of the tortilla quarters.

7. Spoon half of the meat mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.

8. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, meat mixture, and cheese.

9. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

10. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

12. Serve with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, and fresh cilantro on top if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 6 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30-35 minutes

• Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

• Add Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the meat mixture for extra veggies.

• Make it Spicy: Add a sliced jalapeño or some chopped green chilies to the mixture for a bit of heat.

• Swap the Cheese: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamy texture.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free corn tortillas and check your taco seasoning to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Mexican Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze this casserole for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze. To reheat, bake it from frozen at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until heated through.

• Reheating: To reheat individual portions, place the casserole in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day as instructed.

2. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. They will work just as well in this recipe.

3. Can I use different beans in this casserole?

Yes, you can swap the black beans for pinto beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans if you prefer.

4. How can I make this casserole spicier?

You can make the casserole spicier by adding diced jalapeños, spicy salsa, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.

5. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded beef for the ground beef in this recipe.

6. Can I add more cheese to the casserole?

Absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese both in the layers and on top of the casserole.

7. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based crumbles.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, Mexican Casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

9. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this casserole in a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, adding cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

10. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. If you’re unsure, you can use a meat thermometer to check that the center has reached 165°F.

Conclusion

Mexican Casserole is a deliciously easy and customizable dish that packs all the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine into one satisfying meal. With its layers of seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and tortillas, it’s perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to family gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that’s just as delicious the next day. Whether you serve it with sour cream, salsa, or fresh cilantro, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!