Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together all the best flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. With layers of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, rice, salsa, and melted cheese, this casserole is a satisfying meal for any occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it delivers bold flavors in every bite.

Ingredients
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1 pack taco seasoning mix
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can refried beans (warm for easier spreading)
• 1 cup prepared rice (Minute Rice works well)
• 1/2 can Mexican blend corn (drained)
• 4-5 large flour tortillas
• 8 oz thick chunky salsa (mild or hot)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a springform, round cake pan, or casserole dish with cooking spray. In a skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion, then drain the excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and cook according to the package directions.
Place one tortilla at the bottom of the baking dish and spread one-third of the refried beans over it. Add one-third of the seasoned meat and sprinkle with cheese. For the second layer, add another tortilla, followed by half the rice, half the salsa, half the corn, and more cheese. For the third layer, place another tortilla, followed by another one-third of the beans, meat, and cheese. For the fourth and final layer, add a tortilla, the remaining beans, meat, corn, rice, salsa, and cheese.
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the casserole sit for five minutes before cutting.

Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips:
- Let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
- Serve with toppings like sour cream, diced onions, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or guacamole for added freshness and flavor.
- Pair with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
- Drizzle with hot sauce or extra salsa for an extra kick of heat.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions or the entire casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
This casserole is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or quick leftovers!
Variations
Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized with a variety of ingredients to suit different tastes. Here are some fun and flavorful variations:
1. Vegetarian Mexican Tortilla Casserole
Swap the ground beef for black beans, pinto beans, or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for added flavor and texture.
2. Chicken Mexican Tortilla Casserole
Replace the ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast. You can season the chicken with taco seasoning for the same bold flavors.
3. Beef and Sausage Mexican Tortilla Casserole
For a meaty twist, mix ground beef with Italian sausage or chorizo for a spicier, richer flavor profile.
4. Spicy Mexican Tortilla Casserole
Kick up the heat by adding jalapeños or serrano peppers to the casserole. You can also use spicy salsa or chipotle peppers in adobo for an extra smoky kick.
5. Low-Carb Mexican Tortilla Casserole
For a low-carb version, replace the tortillas with sliced zucchini or eggplant. You can also use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lower-carb base.
6. Supreme Mexican Tortilla Casserole
Add more layers with sour cream, guacamole, and shredded lettuce inside the casserole before baking. This will create a creamy, fresh surprise in every bite!
7. Cheesy Mexican Tortilla Casserole
If you’re a cheese lover, increase the cheese content by adding cream cheese, Mexican queso blanco, or a combination of your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack.
8. Breakfast Mexican Tortilla Casserole
Transform this dish into a breakfast casserole by adding scrambled eggs to the layers, along with crumbled sausage or bacon. This makes for a savory, filling breakfast or brunch option.
These variations allow you to get creative with flavors and ingredients, making the casserole even more exciting each time you make it!
FAQs
1. Can I make Mexican Tortilla Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it and store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking at 350°F for 40-45 minutes.
2. Can I freeze Mexican Tortilla Casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. You can even add a mix of cheeses for extra flavor.
4. Is there a substitute for refried beans?
If you prefer, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or a combination of beans in place of refried beans. For a smoother texture, you can mash them slightly before spreading them in the casserole.
5. Can I make this casserole without meat?
Yes, a vegetarian version works well. Simply replace the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or additional vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
6. How spicy is this casserole?
The spiciness of the casserole depends on your choice of salsa. If you prefer a milder dish, use mild salsa. For a hotter version, opt for spicy salsa or add jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
7. Can I use store-bought tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just note that they might be a bit more delicate, so handle them carefully when layering.
8. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortillas and double-check your salsa and taco seasoning to ensure they are gluten-free.
9. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! This casserole is very versatile, so feel free to add corn, bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
10. How do I make the casserole less greasy?
To reduce grease, make sure to drain the ground beef well after cooking. You can also use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
These FAQs will help you customize the recipe to your preferences and ensure it turns out perfectly each time!
Mexican Tortilla Casserole is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish packed with layers of cheesy, savory goodness. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a hearty, baked casserole. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to be a favorite.
Print
MEXICAN TORTILLA CASSEROLE
Description
Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together all the best flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. With layers of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, rice, salsa, and melted cheese, this casserole is a satisfying meal for any occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it delivers bold flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1 pack taco seasoning mix
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can refried beans (warm for easier spreading)
• 1 cup prepared rice (Minute Rice works well)
• 1/2 can Mexican blend corn (drained)
• 4-5 large flour tortillas
• 8 oz thick chunky salsa (mild or hot)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a springform, round cake pan, or casserole dish with cooking spray. In a skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion, then drain the excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and cook according to the package directions.
Place one tortilla at the bottom of the baking dish and spread one-third of the refried beans over it. Add one-third of the seasoned meat and sprinkle with cheese. For the second layer, add another tortilla, followed by half the rice, half the salsa, half the corn, and more cheese. For the third layer, place another tortilla, followed by another one-third of the beans, meat, and cheese. For the fourth and final layer, add a tortilla, the remaining beans, meat, corn, rice, salsa, and cheese.
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the casserole sit for five minutes before cutting.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
- Serve with toppings like sour cream, diced onions, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or guacamole for added freshness and flavor.
- Pair with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
- Drizzle with hot sauce or extra salsa for an extra kick of heat.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions or the entire casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.