Betty'S Mexican Casserole
A hearty Mexican casserole combining seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheeses, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic salt, fajita sauce mix, and chopped onion together in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Place soft tortilla shells in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Pour half of the ground beef mixture over the shells and spread evenly.
- Spread refried beans over the ground beef layer.
- Pour enchilada sauce or Ro-Tel over the beans.
- Slice Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and place alternating slices on top.
- Bake at 425°F until cheese is melted, or microwave until hot and cheese is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker preparation, consider using pre-cooked ground beef or a rotisserie chicken as a substitute. You can also swap the Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses for your favorite melting cheese, such as Pepper Jack for added spice. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms. This dish can be customized with additional toppings like black olives or jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Mexican casserole with a side of fresh guacamole or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with Zippy Cheese Dip for an extra cheesy touch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Mexican rice or cornbread for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts and the dish is heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Mexican Casserole contains roughly 958 calories, with 39g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (81% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1954mg per serving (85% 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 assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just ensure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed until heated through.
What can I use instead of tortilla shells?
If you don’t have tortilla shells, you can use corn tortillas or even layers of polenta for a gluten-free option. Alternatively, consider using thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a low-carb version that still delivers great flavor.
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).