If you are looking for a simple, delicious meal that the whole family will love, this Cheesy Tortilla Casserole is a perfect choice. Combining layers of tortillas, cheese, and a flavorful filling, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8-10 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup salsa
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream and guacamole, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop and Mince: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Grate Cheese: Grate the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese and combine them in a bowl.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook Beef: Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Seasonings and Veggies: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, and frozen corn. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture is heated through and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Tortillas: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, place a layer of tortillas on the bottom, overlapping slightly to cover the entire base.
- Add Filling and Cheese: Spread a layer of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve with sour cream and guacamole on the side.
Cooking Tips:
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by using mild, medium, or hot taco seasoning and salsa according to your preference.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend to suit your taste.
Variations:
- Chicken Tortilla Casserole: Substitute the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add more beans, such as pinto beans or chickpeas, for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
- Breakfast Casserole: Use scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and hash browns to create a hearty breakfast version of this casserole.
FAQs:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What can I serve with this casserole? This Cheesy Tortilla Casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans. Add some chips and salsa for a complete meal.
Is there a gluten-free option? To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the taco seasoning and salsa, are certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Information:
This dish is hearty and filling, making it perfect for a satisfying meal. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming six servings per recipe):
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Cheesy Tortilla Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together the best of Tex-Mex flavors in a convenient, easy-to-make format. With layers of tortillas, savory beef filling, and gooey cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it to your taste and enjoy this comforting, cheesy delight with your loved ones.
