Beef And Cheese Tortilla Casserole
A hearty beef and cheese tortilla casserole with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings. Flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes.
- Pour off the grease, then stir in instant coffee, salt, pepper, chili powder, and one can of tomato sauce. Heat until simmering.
- Spread each tortilla with cream cheese, then place about 1/2 cup of meat mixture over the cheese on half of each tortilla.
- Fold the tortillas in half with the meat side inside and arrange them with the folded edge up in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Pour the remaining meat mixture in the spaces around the tortillas in the pan.
- Pour the remaining can of tomato sauce and water over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the casserole, cover, and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a smoked chili powder or adding diced bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you’re out of cream cheese, a blend of ricotta and sour cream can work as a substitute. To enhance the dish, top with sliced jalapeños or olives before baking. This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for easy weeknight meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Beef And Cheese Tortilla Casserole with a side of fresh guacamole and a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Silverado Taco Casserole for a fun themed dinner. Enjoy it with your favorite Mexican recipes for a festive gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on medium power until hot. Ensure to cover the dish to retain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Cheese Tortilla Casserole contains roughly 1810 calories, with 19g protein, 217g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2709mg per serving (118% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or black beans, seasoned similarly to the original recipe for a delicious alternative.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it as directed, but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the original instructions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).