Mexican Dinner Casserole
A hearty Mexican casserole layers tortillas, seasoned beef, and cheese for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine canned tomatoes and spices (salt, chili powder, cumin).
- Mash the tomatoes with a potato masher, then add the tomato mixture to the cooked meat and onion.
- In a 2-quart casserole, layer tortillas, meat mixture, and shredded Cheddar cheese repeatedly until all ingredients are used.
- Cover the casserole and bake for about 30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
- Cut into pie-shaped wedges and top each serving with 1 teaspoon of sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner substitute for ground beef. You can also swap out the Cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the meat with black beans or lentils. For extra veggies, add bell peppers or corn to the meat mixture. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexican Dinner Casserole warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Pair it with a crisp green salad or guacamole for a complete meal. This dish also goes well with rice or beans on the side. For a fun twist, try serving it with a dollop of sour cream or browse more Mexican recipes for additional sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. For best results, cover the casserole with foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it heats evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Dinner Casserole contains roughly 691 calories, with 31g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1475mg per serving (64% 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 prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through properly.
Can I freeze the Mexican Dinner Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
What can I use instead of tortillas?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using corn tortillas or even zucchini slices as a layer. For a low-carb version, cauliflower rice can be used as a base layer. Just ensure any substitutes are cooked appropriately before layering in the casserole.
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).