Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine in a convenient casserole form. Here’s everything you need to know to create this delicious meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 pack taco seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can of refried beans (warmed for easier spreading)
- 1 cup prepared rice (such as Minute Rice)
- 1 can Mexican blend corn (drained, about half can)
- 4-5 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz thick chunky salsa (mild or hot, as per preference)
Directions
- Preparation:
- Spray a spring form, round cake pan, or casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Ground Beef:
- Brown the ground beef and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat.
- Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning mix to the skillet and cook according to the package directions.
- Layering:
- 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 cooked ground beef mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Building Layers:
- Repeat the layering process:
- Second layer: Tortilla, half of the prepared rice, half of the salsa, half of the drained corn, and shredded cheese.
- Third layer: Tortilla, 1/3 of the refried beans, 1/3 of the cooked ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese.
- Fourth layer: Tortilla, remaining refried beans, remaining cooked ground beef mixture, remaining drained corn, remaining rice, remaining salsa, and shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layering process:
- Baking:
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before cutting into it.
- Serving:
- After baking, top the Mexican Tortilla Casserole with sour cream, diced onion, and shredded lettuce if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors!
FAQs (Based on “People Also Ask” Section):
Let’s address some common questions about Mexican Tortilla Casserole:
1. Can I Use Chicken Instead of Beef in This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken or shredded cooked chicken for ground beef to create a chicken variation of this casserole.
2. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
3. Can I Freeze Leftover Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Mexican Tortilla Casserole for later enjoyment. Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What Are Some Serving Suggestions for This Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of toppings and side dishes. Consider serving it with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of guacamole or salsa. You can also serve it with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
5. Can I Customize the Ingredients to Suit My Taste Preferences?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite ingredients and flavors. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or black olives, or adjust the level of spice by using mild or hot salsa and taco seasoning mix. Get creative and make it your own!
Conclusion:
Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. With its layers of savory flavors and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Give this recipe a try and delight your taste buds with a taste of Mexican-inspired comfort food!