Tex-Mex Tortilla Bake
A hearty Tex-Mex casserole layered with seasoned beef, vegetables, tortillas, and melted sharp Cheddar, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- In a heavy 12-inch skillet over moderately high heat, cook the ground beef uncovered, stirring often, for 5 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the beef to a bowl.
- Add the chopped onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic to the beef drippings and cook uncovered over low heat until the onion is soft.
- Add the chopped tomatoes with their juice, crumbled oregano, ground cumin, salt, and rinsed, seeded, and minced green chilies.
- Simmer uncovered until the mixture is thick.
- Stir in the cooked beef and any accumulated juices.
- Cut the tortillas into 1-inch strips and line the bottom of a buttered 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with half of them.
- Cover with half of the beef mixture; repeat with remaining tortillas and beef mixture.
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more canned green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. If ground beef isn't available, ground turkey or chicken can serve as a lighter alternative. To save time, use pre-chopped veggies or a frozen mix. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or beans for a vegetarian twist, just like in many Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tex-Mex Tortilla Bake with a side of fresh guacamole or sour cream for added creaminess. A simple green salad or some Mexican rice pairs beautifully with this dish. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Dee'S Nacho Cheese Dip for an extra cheesy experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the tortilla bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the cheese and tortillas.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tex-Mex Tortilla Bake contains roughly 809 calories, with 21g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (98% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2217mg per serving (96% 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 beef mixture and assemble the tortilla bake up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, while black beans or lentils make for a hearty vegetarian option. Both substitutions will work well with the spices and flavors in this recipe.
Can I freeze the Tex-Mex Tortilla Bake?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
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).