Mexican Davis Style
A flavorful Mexican-inspired casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, cheesy layers, and spicy salsa, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Brown the ground beef in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
- Drain the grease from the beef.
- Pour 2 tablespoons of salsa into the meat and mix well.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Pour 2 tablespoons of salsa into the bottom of a 9 x 9-inch dish.
- Fill a flour tortilla with beef, refried beans, and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Place the filled tortilla in the dish.
- Repeat the filling and layering process as many times as desired.
- Pour the remaining salsa over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve with remaining beans and chips for a complete meal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, consider substituting the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute. You can also use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version. Don't hesitate to add veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier dish, use a medium or hot picante sauce instead of mild. This recipe is reminiscent of Tostada Pie in its layered approach.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Pair with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with chips and salsa, making it a great addition to any gathering. This is a comforting dish that fits perfectly with other Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker meals, but the oven will help keep the tortillas from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Davis Style contains roughly 1242 calories, with 63g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (126% of the Daily Value), calcium (69% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1601mg per serving (70% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and assemble them in the dish the day before. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
Consider serving a simple side of Mexican rice or refried beans to complement the flavors of the dish. A fresh corn salad or avocado slices also make great accompaniments. This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing beverage like horchata or a classic margarita.
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).