Six-Layer Mexican Casserole
A hearty and flavorful six-layer Mexican casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and tortillas. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, its rich layers and bold flavors make it a satisfying comfort food that combines classic Mexican ingredients in a convenient baked dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 6 uncooked tortillas on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cook and crumble 2 pounds of ground beef with 1 chopped onion and 1 tablespoon chili powder until browned.
- Spread a layer of cooked ground beef over the tortillas.
- Spoon a can of cream of chicken soup evenly over the beef layer.
- Sprinkle a can of tomatoes and green chilies over the soup.
- Add a layer of Ranch Style beans over the chili mixture.
- Sprinkle 1 pound of grated Cheddar cheese over the beans.
- Repeat the layers with remaining tortillas, beef, soup, chilies, beans, and cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Let stand for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy cheese. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked shredded chicken from recipes like Southwestern Chicken 'N Shells. Additionally, corn tortillas can be replaced with flour tortillas for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs well with a fresh green salad or a dollop of sour cream on top. For a complete meal, serve alongside Mexican rice or refried beans. It also complements well with recipes like West Texas Tortilla Soup for a delicious Mexican-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Six-Layer Mexican Casserole contains roughly 938 calories, with 29g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2106mg per serving (92% 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. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook it.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can use homemade cream of chicken soup, or swap it for a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. For a lighter option, opt for a creamy white sauce made with milk and flour.
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).