Mexican Tortilla Casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mexican Tortilla Casserole

Making this Mexican Tortilla Casserole is straightforward and quick. Here’s how to assemble it:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the ground beef (or alternative protein), breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook the beef until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Taco Seasoning and Other Ingredients

Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat, if necessary. Add the taco seasoning to the beef mixture, followed by the salsa, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Start layering the casserole in the prepared dish. Begin with a layer of tortilla strips (or quarters), covering the bottom of the dish. Then, add half of the beef mixture on top of the tortillas. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the beef.

Repeat the layering process: add another layer of tortilla strips, followed by the remaining beef mixture and top with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Once the casserole is assembled, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Serve with your favorite toppings, such as guacamole, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or fresh lime wedges.

Tips for Success

• Choose Your Protein: While ground beef is the most popular choice for this dish, feel free to swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu. This will allow you to tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, you can amp up the spiciness of this casserole by adding chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture or using a hot salsa. You could also top it with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Use Corn or Flour Tortillas: Both corn and flour tortillas work well in this casserole. Corn tortillas provide a more authentic flavor, while flour tortillas yield a softer texture. Choose based on your personal preference.
• Make It a Veggie Version: For a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and add extra beans, vegetables, or even a layer of sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meatless meal.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Just bake it, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat it in the oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Mexican Rice: Serve with fluffy, seasoned Mexican rice to soak up the casserole’s flavors.
• Refried Beans: A side of creamy refried beans adds richness to the meal and complements the spices in the casserole.
• Chips and Salsa: For an extra crunch and flavor, serve tortilla chips with a side of salsa or guacamole.
• Salad: A fresh side salad with lime dressing or a Mexican street corn salad can add a light, refreshing contrast to the casserole.

Why You’ll Love Mexican Tortilla Casserole

This dish checks all the boxes: it’s flavorful, easy to make, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or making it ahead for meal prep, this Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a perfect option. The layers of tortillas, seasoned beef or chicken, melted cheese, and salsa come together to create a mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

From its comforting and cheesy layers to its customizable ingredients, the Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a meal that is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or any occasion when you’re craving something delicious and filling.