Tex-Mex Tortilla Casserole
A hearty Tex-Mex casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and salsa, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings with bold, spicy flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 lb. lean ground beef
- 2 onions, chopped ⓘ
- 2 large green peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 2 (10.5 oz.) pkg. 6-inch flour tortillas ⓘ
- 2 (19 oz.) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz.) pkg. shredded sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 4 (11 oz.) jars mild chunky salsa ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Coat 2 (13 x 9-inch) baking dishes with cooking spray.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef, onions, green peppers, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, and pepper, stirring often until beef is browned, about 10 minutes. Drain if necessary.
- Line the bottom of each baking dish with 6 tortillas.
- Divide the beef mixture evenly between the two dishes.
- Top each with one can of kidney beans, then sprinkle with 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Place remaining tortillas over the beef layer.
- Spread 2 jars of salsa over each casserole.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or use spicy salsa. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, replace the ground beef with black beans and add more veggies like corn or zucchini. To save time, use store-bought shredded cheese and pre-chopped veggies. This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or sliced avocado for added creaminess. A fresh green salad or Mexican street corn pairs well for a bright side. You can also serve it alongside tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, and it pairs beautifully with other Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tex-Mex Tortilla Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but oven reheating retains better texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tex-Mex Tortilla Casserole contains roughly 954 calories, with 39g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1802mg per serving (78% 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 cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the kidney beans?
If you don't have kidney beans, you can use black beans or pinto beans as a substitute. Both options work well and add a nice texture to the casserole. You can also omit the beans entirely for a meatier dish.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the edges are slightly crispy. Use a knife to check if it's heated all the way through; it should be hot in the center. If it’s not, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
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).