Mexican Casserole Recipe
This Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe delivers bold flavor in every bite, layered with seasoned beef, zesty tomatoes, hearty beans, and melty cheese. It’s a foolproof favorite for weeknight dinners.
Corn tortillas, chili beans, and sour cream bring authentic comfort to the table, while gooey cheddar and spiced meat keep each layer irresistible. It’s a crave-worthy classic that satisfies every time.
Key Ingredients in This Easy Mexican Casserole
- Ground beef – Provides a savory, hearty foundation and soaks up the bold flavors of the seasonings.
- Taco seasoning – Adds smoky, spiced depth with a perfect blend of chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
- Chili beans – Infuse the dish with texture and a mild kick of chili flavor that complements the meat.
- Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) – Brings brightness and heat, making each bite pop.
- Crushed tomatoes – Balances out the spice with rich, slightly sweet tomato flavor.
- Corn tortillas – Serve as a soft, slightly chewy base that holds the casserole together beautifully.
- Sour cream – Adds a creamy tang that mellows out the spice and gives a luscious texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey perfection, tying all the layers together with cheesy richness.
How to Make This Easy Mexican Casserole
Start by browning the ground beef until fully cooked, then stir in taco seasoning, chili beans, Rotel, and crushed tomatoes to create a deeply flavorful filling.
Layer corn tortillas at the base of a greased baking dish, spoon over half the meat mixture, then top with more tortillas and cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous spread of sour cream and a final layer of cheese.
Bake until bubbling and golden, letting those delicious layers meld together. Serve hot with crunchy tortilla chips or a crisp green salad.
Tips & Twists to Perfect Your Casserole Game
For a smoky upgrade, try substituting chipotle chili powder in the taco seasoning. Adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture can deepen the flavor and bulk up the dish.
Want it creamier? Mix some of the sour cream directly into the meat layer for added silkiness. If you’re short on tortillas, crushed tortilla chips can add crunch and character in a pinch.
Make it your own by swapping ground beef for shredded chicken or ground turkey. For vegetarians, omit the meat and double the beans with some corn and sautéed zucchini.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating Leftovers
This casserole stores beautifully. Once cooled, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped in foil and sealed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating to bring it back to life.
Mexican Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can chili beans
- 12 –16 corn tortillas quartered
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 15 oz
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned; drain off any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning, chili beans, Rotel, and crushed tomatoes. Simmer briefly to combine the flavors.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by coating it with non-stick spray. Arrange a layer of tortilla quarters across the bottom. Spoon half of the meat mixture evenly over the tortillas. Top with another layer of tortilla pieces, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the top.
- Add a final layer of tortillas, pour over the remaining meat mixture, spread sour cream evenly across the surface, and finish with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
