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Mexican Casserole

Name: Mexican Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 4 cups tortilla chips; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and Cheddar blend); 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp chili powder; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

Posted on September 14, 2025

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Mexican casserole is a delightful explosion of flavors that transports you straight to a sun-soaked fiesta. Picture layers of seasoned meat, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese melding together in perfect harmony, all topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. spicy butternut stew The aroma wafting from the oven will have your taste buds dancing long before the first bite.

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was during a family gathering, and let’s just say it quickly became the household favorite. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive get-together, this Mexican casserole delivers on every front, bringing smiles and satisfied bellies all around!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Mexican casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Its flavor profile is bold and comforting with a delightful mix of spices
The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece on your dinner table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand

I still chuckle when I think about my cousin’s reaction after his first bite—his eyes widened in disbelief as he declared it “life-changing.”

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean meat for a healthier option; it absorbs flavors beautifully while keeping the dish hearty. hearty turkey soup recipe.
Tortilla Chips: Use crispy ones for that satisfying crunch; they also soak up the flavors wonderfully.
Canned Black Beans: Rinse them well to reduce sodium; they add protein and texture to the casserole.
Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for extra flavor; they elevate the whole dish with their smoky sweetness.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar melts perfectly, creating a gooey topping that everyone loves. For more inspiration, check out this beef and cheese chimichangas recipe.
Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These are essential for that authentic Mexican flavor; don’t skimp on these little powerhouses!
Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds brightness and freshness; chop it right before serving for maximum flavor.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Use as a topping for creaminess; it balances the spices beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this cheeseburger bombs recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large skillet and heat over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart until it’s browned and cooked through.

Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in diced tomatoes (including juices), black beans, cumin, chili powder, and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes until fragrant. This step is when your kitchen starts smelling like heaven on earth!

Grab an oven-safe baking dish and start layering: First, spread half of those crunchy tortilla chips at the bottom. Top them generously with half of the meat mixture, followed by half of your shredded cheese.

Repeat this process one more time—more chips, more meat mixture, more cheese! Now comes the best part: pop that beauty into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Once out of the oven—careful not to burn those fingers!—let it sit for about 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Enjoy every cheesy bite while soaking in those warm family vibes!

You Must Know

This Mexican casserole is a crowd-pleaser, combining comfort food with vibrant flavors
You can easily adjust ingredients based on preferences or what’s in your pantry
The delightful aromas and colorful layers will make your kitchen feel like a fiesta

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat and onions before layering the rest of the ingredients. Assemble quickly to maintain the freshness of each component for maximum flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out proteins, like chicken or turkey, or add veggies such as bell peppers. savory turkey pot pie Spice it up with extra jalapeños for an added kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for optimal texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure you drain canned beans and corn to prevent excess moisture
For a crispy top, broil for a few minutes before serving
Letting the casserole sit after baking allows flavors to meld beautifully

I remember the first time I made this Mexican casserole; my friends devoured it within minutes, demanding the recipe like it was a secret family heirloom! Italian sausage ragu.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make Mexican casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day prior and bake it right before serving.

What toppings go well on Mexican casserole?

Sour cream, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro enhance flavors beautifully.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Freeze portions for quick meals later; just thaw overnight before reheating.