This Mexican Tortilla Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, rice, cheese, and flavorful salsa layered between soft tortillas. Baked to perfection, it’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish topped with fresh garnishes like sour cream, diced onion, and shredded lettuce for a festive finishing touch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Layered Perfection: Each layer combines bold flavors and textures for a fiesta in every bite.
Customizable: Adjust the heat, swap ingredients, or add extras to suit your family’s preferences.
Quick Prep: With simple steps and pantry staples, it’s a breeze to prepare.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it in advance and bake when you’re ready.

Key Ingredients:

Ground Beef: The base of the casserole, seasoned with classic taco spices for a savory punch.

Flour Tortillas: Acts as the “pasta” in this Mexican-inspired layered dish, holding everything together.

Refried Beans: Creamy and rich, adding a hearty layer of flavor. Warming them makes spreading easier.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, golden topping that everyone loves.

Rice: A fluffy addition that balances the robust flavors. Minute Rice keeps prep quick and easy.

Mexican Blend Corn: Adds pops of sweetness and color to the casserole.

Chunky Salsa: Brings a tangy, spicy note—choose mild or hot based on your heat preference.

Taco Seasoning: The essential spice blend that ties everything together.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Pan: Spray a springform pan, round cake pan, or casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Beef and Onion

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned.
Add Onion: Stir in the diced onion and cook until translucent.
Drain Fat: Remove any excess fat from the skillet.
Season the Meat: Add taco seasoning and water per package instructions, stirring well. Simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors.

3. Layer the Casserole

First Layer:
Place one tortilla in the bottom of the baking dish.
Spread 1/3 of the refried beans evenly over the tortilla.
Add 1/3 of the seasoned meat mixture.
Sprinkle a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat.

4. Build the Second Layer

Second Layer:
Place another tortilla on top of the first layer.
Spread 1/2 of the prepared rice evenly over the tortilla.
Add 1/2 of the salsa, spreading it out.
Sprinkle 1/2 of the drained corn over the salsa.
Top with a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese.

5. Build the Third Layer

Third Layer:
Add another tortilla.
Spread another 1/3 of the refried beans evenly.
Add another 1/3 of the seasoned meat mixture.
Sprinkle with more shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Final Layer

Final Layer:
Place the last tortilla on top.
Spread the remaining refried beans evenly.
Top with the rest of the seasoned meat mixture.
Add the remaining corn and rice.
Spread the last of the salsa over the top.
Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.

7. Bake the Casserole

Cover: Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake: Bake for 40 minutes in the preheated oven.
Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Let it Set and Serve

Set and Slice: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to set.
Garnish: Add optional toppings like sour cream, diced onion, or shredded lettuce.
Serve: Slice into portions and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

This casserole is satisfying on its own, but you can take it to the next level with these accompaniments:

Garnishes: Top with sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or sliced jalapeños for added freshness.
Side Dishes: Pair with Mexican rice, black beans, or a crisp, zesty salad.
Tortilla Chips: Use them to scoop up every cheesy, saucy bite!

Pair it with a refreshing margarita, agua fresca, or an ice-cold soda for the ultimate meal experience.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
Freezer: Assemble the casserole (but don’t bake), cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting cold.

Variations to Try:

This Mexican Tortilla Casserole is incredibly versatile! Here are some fun ways to change it up:

Chicken Option: Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter, protein-packed twist.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add black beans, diced zucchini, or sautéed mushrooms.
Extra Heat: Use hot salsa, sprinkle in red pepper flakes, or add chopped jalapeños.
Layered Guacamole: Add a layer of guacamole just before serving for extra creaminess.
Cheese Blend: Replace cheddar with a mix of Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or queso fresco for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion:

Mexican Tortilla Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this layered masterpiece delivers every time.

So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to slice into a cheesy, savory fiesta. Trust me, this casserole will become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.