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Mexican Tortilla Casserole

Mexican Tortilla Casserole

Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a deliciously layered dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine into a hearty, easy-to-make meal. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is a surefire way to please a crowd.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 8

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • mixing spoon
  • Round Cake Pan, Springform Pan, or Casserole Dish
  • Cooking spray
  • Aluminum foil
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Microwave (Optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb. ground beef - Provides the main protein and savory flavor for the dish.
  • 1/2 cup diced onion - Adds a sweet and slightly sharp flavor to the beef.
  • 1 pack taco seasoning mix Seasons the beef with traditional Mexican spices.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - Melts over the layers adding a rich, creamy texture.
  • 1 can refried beans warmed for easier spreading - Adds creaminess and depth of flavor to each layer.
  • 1 cup prepared rice Minute Rice used in the recipe - Adds substance and helps to bind the layers together.
  • 1 can Mexican blend corn drained; using 1/2 can - Adds a sweet and crunchy texture to the casserole.
  • 4-5 large flour tortillas Serves as the base and separates the layers in the casserole.
  • 8 oz thick chunky salsa mild or hot, depending on preference - Adds moisture, flavor, and a bit of zest to the dish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a springform pan, round cake pan, or casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Cook the Beef and Onion:

  • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until the onion is translucent and the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning mix according to the package directions, and let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Layer the Casserole:

  • Lay one tortilla in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  • Spread 1/3 of the refried beans over the tortilla.
  • Top with 1/3 of the seasoned meat mixture.
  • Sprinkle with a portion of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Build the Second Layer:
  • Place another tortilla on top.
  • Spread 1/2 of the prepared rice over the tortilla.
  • Add 1/2 of the salsa, spreading it evenly.
  • Sprinkle 1/2 of the drained corn over the salsa.
  • Top with another portion of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Build the Third Layer:

  • Place another tortilla on top.
  • Spread another 1/3 of the refried beans over the tortilla.
  • Add another 1/3 of the seasoned meat mixture.
  • Sprinkle with more shredded cheddar cheese.

Final Layer:

  • Add the final tortilla on top.
  • Spread the remaining refried beans over the tortilla.
  • Top with the remaining seasoned meat, the rest of the corn, and the remaining rice.
  • Spread the remaining salsa over the top and sprinkle with the last portion of shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake the Casserole:

  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Let it Set and Serve:

  • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before cutting. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut into neat pieces. Serve with optional garnishes like sour cream, diced onion, and shredded lettuce if desired.