Description
Layered Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a hearty and colorful dish featuring tender tortillas layered with seasoned meat, refried beans, vibrant veggies, and melted cheese. This easy-to-prepare casserole bursts with authentic Mexican flavors, making it perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep. Versatile and customizable, it can be made vegetarian, spicy, or dairy-free, and serves as a warm, flavorful main course that pleases both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- Soft corn or flour tortillas (8-12)
- Refried beans (1 cup)
- Tomato sauce or salsa (1 cup)
- Shredded cheese blend (2 cups; cheddar and Monterey Jack recommended)
Protein
- Ground beef or chicken (1 lb)
- Onion, finely chopped (1 medium)
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
Vegetables & Spices
- Chopped jalapeños or bell peppers (1/2 cup)
- Cumin (1 tsp)
- Chili powder (1 tsp)
- Paprika (1 tsp)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, 1/4 cup chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: Sauté finely chopped onions and garlic in a pan until fragrant. Add ground beef or chicken seasoned with cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, allowing the spices to infuse the meat.
- Layer the Base: Lightly grease a casserole dish. Begin with a layer of soft corn or flour tortillas to form a sturdy foundation. Spread a thin layer of refried beans evenly over the tortillas to add creaminess and moisture.
- Add the Filling Layers: Spread a generous portion of the cooked meat mixture over the beans. Drizzle with tomato sauce or salsa, then sprinkle chopped jalapeños or bell peppers on top for added color and spice.
- Cheese and Repeat Layers: Add a thick layer of shredded cheese over the filling. Repeat the layers starting with tortillas, then beans, meat mixture, salsa, and cheese until the dish is filled, finishing with a final cheese layer on top.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled casserole for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- Warm tortillas before layering to prevent cracking and help the casserole hold together.
- Use fresh spices like cumin and chili powder for more authentic flavor.
- Avoid overloading layers to ensure even baking and easy slicing without sogginess.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to set properly.
- Mix several cheese types for a richer, more complex melt and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: Mexican casserole, tortilla casserole, layered casserole, ground beef casserole, easy dinner, Mexican comfort food
