Tijuana Tort
A hearty Mexican casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, crispy tortillas, and melted cheese, perfect for satisfying family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion and salt.
- Add tomato sauce, taco seasoning, oregano, diced green chilies, and stewed tomatoes to the beef mixture.
- In a baking dish, layer the meat mixture, tortilla shells, and grated cheese.
- Repeat layers of meat, tortillas, and cheese until all ingredients are used.
- Bake for 20 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicy taco seasoning. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the meat for black beans or lentils. Ensure the tortillas are sturdy enough to hold the layers; corn tortillas work well for this dish. Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Tijuana Tort pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican Stir-Fry or a fresh green salad. You can serve it with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider adding some seasoned black beans or corn. It’s also great with tortilla chips for a fun, interactive dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For a quick option, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking the temperature to ensure it’s heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tijuana Tort contains roughly 269 calories, with 7g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 Tijuana Tort ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the layers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and bake it directly, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, try using lentils or black beans. Both options will still provide great flavor and texture, making your Tijuana Tort delicious and satisfying without meat.
Can I freeze Tijuana Tort?
Absolutely! Tijuana Tort freezes well. Assemble the dish, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, ensuring it's heated through completely.
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).