Description
This Mexican Casserole is a hearty and flavorful layered dish combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, salsa, and tomatoes, topped with melted Mexican blend cheese and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s easy to prepare and bakes to golden, cheesy perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
Seasonings and Beans
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup salsa (mild or hot, your choice)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
Dairy and Bread
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 8 small corn tortillas (or flour, if preferred), cut into quarters
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for layering or topping)
Garnishes (Optional)
- Fresh cilantro
- Green onions
- Jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and prepare for layering.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning along with 1/4 cup water. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to fully combine the flavors.
- Mix in Beans and Vegetables: Add the black beans, corn, salsa, and drained diced tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to heat everything through, blending the flavors well.
- Layer the Casserole: Start by layering one-third of the tortilla pieces in the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Add one-third of the beef mixture on top, then sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheese. Repeat this layering two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Optional Sour Cream Layer: If using sour cream, dollop it between the beef and cheese layers in the middle layer for added creaminess.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños if desired.
- Serve: Serve the casserole warm with extra sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce on the side for extra flavor and customization.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Use either corn or flour tortillas based on your preference.
- Sour cream is optional but adds nice creaminess; consider layering it or serving on the side.
- Adjust the heat level of salsa and jalapeños according to taste.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
