Description

Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a delicious and comforting layered dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with the simplicity of a casserole. It features alternating layers of tortillas, seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and salsa, creating a rich and hearty meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping in advance for busy weeknights. The casserole is baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and it can be served with a variety of fresh toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or diced avocado.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb. ground beef Provides the main protein and savory flavor for the dish.
1/2 cup diced onion Adds a sweet and slightly sharp flavor to the beef.
1 pack taco seasoning mix Seasons the beef with traditional Mexican spices.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Melts over the layers, adding a rich, creamy texture.
1 can refried beans warmed for easier spreading, Adds creaminess and depth of flavor to each layer.
1 cup prepared rice Minute Rice used in the recipe, Adds substance and helps to bind the layers together.
1 can Mexican blend corn drained; using 1/2 can, Adds a sweet and crunchy texture to the casserole.
4–5 large flour tortillas Serves as the base and separates the layers in the casserole.
8 oz thick chunky salsa mild or hot, depending on preference, Adds moisture, flavor, and a bit of zest to the dish.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a springform pan, round cake pan, or casserole dish with cooking spray.
Cook the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until the onion is translucent and the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning mix according to package directions.
Layer the Casserole: Lay one tortilla in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread 1/3 of the refried beans over the tortilla. Top with 1/3 of the seasoned meat mixture. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Build the Second Layer: Place another tortilla on top. Spread 1/2 of the prepared rice over the tortilla. Add 1/2 of the salsa, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle 1/2 of the drained corn over the salsa. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Build the Third Layer: Place another tortilla on top. Spread another 1/3 of the refried beans over the tortilla. Add another 1/3 of the seasoned meat mixture. Sprinkle with more shredded cheddar cheese.
Final Layer: Add the final tortilla on top. Spread the remaining refried beans over the tortilla. Top with the remaining seasoned meat. Add the rest of the corn and the remaining rice. Spread the remaining salsa over the top and sprinkle with the last portion of shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 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.
Let it Set and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before cutting. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut into neat pieces. Top with optional garnishes like sour cream, diced onion, and shredded lettuce if desired.

Notes

Tortilla Choice: Corn tortillas are traditionally used and hold up well during baking, providing a firmer texture. Flour tortillas offer a softer texture but may become soggy, so use sparingly if opting for flour.
Meat Substitutions: Ground beef, chicken, or turkey are the most popular choices for this casserole. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with extra beans, crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative.
Beans: Black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans can all be used depending on your preference. Refried beans add a creamier texture, while whole beans offer more bite.
Cheese: Use a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for the best melting and flavor. Vegan cheese can be substituted if you want a dairy-free option.
Salsa: Store-bought salsa is convenient, but homemade salsa can add a fresh touch. Choose mild, medium, or spicy salsa depending on your heat tolerance.
Layering: Proper layering is key to ensuring an even distribution of flavors and textures. Start with tortillas, then alternate between beans, meat, salsa, and cheese. Be mindful not to oversaturate the layers with salsa to prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.
Baking Tips: Cover the casserole with foil for the first part of baking to prevent over-browning. Uncover for the last 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and bubble. The casserole is ready when it is hot throughout, and the cheese is melted and golden.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with fresh garnishes like cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, or extra salsa. For a complete meal, serve alongside Mexican rice, corn on the cob, or chips and salsa.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave, though note that the tortillas may soften more with microwave reheating.