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Mexican Casserole
Emma

Mexican Casserole

This Mexican Casserole is a cheesy, flavorful baked dish with seasoned beef, beans, tortillas, and melted cheese perfect for family dinner
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Mexican blend cheese
  • 4 –5 small tortillas cut into pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup sour cream optional
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Add chopped onion and garlic, then sauté until softened and fragrant.
  4. Stir in taco seasoning, salsa, beans, corn, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well and letting it simmer for a few minutes.
  5. Spread a layer of tortilla pieces in the bottom of the baking dish.
  6. Add a layer of the meat mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with cheese.
  7. Repeat the layers (tortillas, meat, cheese) until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  10. Top with sour cream and fresh cilantro before serving if desired.

Notes

Cook the meat fully before assembling the casserole to ensure even flavor.
Use a thick salsa to avoid making the casserole too watery.
Let the casserole rest after baking so it sets and slices more easily.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil while baking.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.
Drain beans well to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
Adjust seasoning based on the saltiness of your taco seasoning and salsa.