Cheezy Tortilla Casserole
A cheesy, flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, picante sauce, chilies, and melted cheddar layered with tortilla chips for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and drain.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup, picante sauce, diced green chilies, and chopped onion.
- Bring the mixture just to boiling point.
- Place a layer of tortilla chips in a greased casserole dish.
- Cover the chips with half of the meat sauce.
- Add another layer of tortilla chips and half of the grated Cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for about 15 minutes or until the cheese bubbles.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a teaspoon of chili powder or cumin to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use black beans for a vegetarian twist. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce works well. This dish is great for using up leftover tortillas or even for making a Mexican Macaroni variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheezy Tortilla Casserole with a side of guacamole or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Pair it with refried beans or rice to make it heartier. This casserole also complements well with a cool, tangy sour cream topping. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside a plate of Crunchy Taco Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheezy Tortilla Casserole contains roughly 444 calories, with 19g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 764mg per serving (33% 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 a day in advance. Assemble the layers, cover, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, increase the baking time by about 10 minutes to ensure it's heated through. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I use instead of tortilla chips?
If you want a different texture, consider using crushed corn tortillas or even homemade tortilla strips. You can also try layering with polenta or cooked rice for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the substitute.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This is a great option for meal prep!
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).