Layered Tortilla Casserole
A hearty layered casserole combining seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar, olives, and tortillas, perfect for a flavorful family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning mix and water; cook according to package instructions, then stir in chili powder.
- Layer buttered corn tortillas in a casserole dish.
- Spread the seasoned beef mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese and sliced ripe olives over the beef layer.
- Repeat layers if desired, ending with cheese and olives on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional toppings if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture. Consider using a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack for added flavor. This casserole is perfect for using up leftover ingredients from recipes like Martha'S Taco Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the layered tortilla casserole hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sour cream for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with Spanish Rice-A-Roni or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Consider serving with additional toppings on the side for customization.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover layered tortilla casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Tortilla Casserole contains roughly 549 calories, with 24g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1912mg per serving (83% 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 and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze the layered tortilla casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions as usual. This makes for a convenient meal option during busy weeks.
What can I use instead of taco seasoning mix?
If you don't have taco seasoning mix, you can create your own blend using spices like cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Adjust the quantities to your taste, typically about 1 tablespoon each of cumin and paprika, with a teaspoon of the other spices. This allows you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
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).