Layered Mexican Casserole
A hearty layered Mexican casserole featuring tortillas, seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheeses. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers bold flavors with a satisfying combination of spicy, cheesy, and savory elements in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck, then add seasonings and finish cooking.
- Put a small amount of picante sauce in the bottom of a 9 x 12-inch baking pan.
- Line the bottom with flour tortilla shells.
- Cover with refried beans and a thin layer of picante sauce.
- Layer tortillas, then ground beef, then tortillas, then shredded cheese (reserve some for the top), then picante sauce, then tortillas.
- Cover the top with picante sauce and shredded cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade taco seasoning or adding chopped onions and garlic while browning the ground chuck. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed vegetables or use black beans. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or use hot picante sauce. This layered dish is reminiscent of other Mexican recipes like Cheesy Tortillas or Quick Layered Bean Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh side salad or guacamole for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Avocado Taco Dip for extra creaminess. You can also top it with sour cream or fresh cilantro for added flavor. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings and can be complemented with tortilla chips or a side of rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, but the oven method helps maintain the texture of the cheese and tortillas.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Mexican Casserole contains roughly 244 calories, with 20g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 495mg per serving (22% 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 prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Shredded cheese blends like Mexican or cheddar are great for this casserole. You can also use Monterey Jack or a mix of your favorites. Sliced cheese can add a creamy texture, so feel free to combine both styles for added richness.
Can I freeze the layered Mexican casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover the casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days.
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).