MEXICAN TORTILLA CASSEROLE
Mexican Tortilla Casserole: A Flavorful Fiesta on Your Plate
Looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion? This Mexican Tortilla Casserole is the answer. It’s a delicious vegetarian dish that can easily be customized with meat for a more robust flavor. With its layers of tortillas, beans, cheese, and more, it’s like a Mexican-style lasagna that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual get-together with friends. You can make it ahead of time, as it freezes and reheats beautifully. Plus, it’s versatile—swap in shredded chicken or beef, add your favorite veggies, or stick with the classic vegetarian version. The choice is yours!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Springform pan, round cake pan, or casserole dish
- Skillet for browning meat
- Spatula or spoon for spreading ingredients
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 pack taco seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can refried beans (warm in microwave for easier spreading)
- 1 cup prepared rice (such as Minute Rice)
- 1 can Mexican blend corn (drained, will use about 1/2 can)
- 4-5 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz of thick chunky salsa (mild or hot, your choice)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray your baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion, then drain any excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning to the beef and cook according to the package directions.
- Place one tortilla in the bottom of the baking dish. Spread 1/3 of the refried beans on it, top with 1/3 of the meat, and sprinkle with cheese.
- For the second layer, add another tortilla, 1/2 of the rice, 1/2 of the salsa, 1/2 of the corn, and more cheese.
- Repeat for the third layer with a tortilla, 1/3 beans, 1/3 meat, and cheese.
- For the fourth layer, add a tortilla, the remaining beans, meat, corn, rice, salsa, and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for about 40 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes. Let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Top with sour cream, diced onion, and shredded lettuce if desired.
Tips for Success
- Warm the refried beans in the microwave to make spreading easier.
- Customize with your favorite toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or hot sauce.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, cooked broccoli, or even kale to the layers for added nutrition. Swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken or keep it vegetarian with extra beans and veggies.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This casserole is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the beans, cheese, and meat. Adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! It’s perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer.
How long does it keep? In the fridge, it will last about 3-4 days. In the freezer, it can last up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Ready to bring the flavors of Mexico to your dinner table? Give this Mexican Tortilla Casserole a try and let it become a staple in your meal rotation. We’d love to hear about your experience and any variations you try. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
