Creamy Mexican Casserole with Beef, Beans, and Cheesy Goodness Recipe
This Mexican Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dinner option featuring lean ground beef, black beans, tomatoes, and layered with soft corn tortillas and melted Colby Jack cheese. It’s seasoned with taco spices and salsa for a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Meat & Vegetables
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup water
- 20 ounces Rotel, drained
- 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed
Seasonings & Sauces
- 2 ounces taco seasoning
- 16 ounces jar salsa (mild)
Baked Layers
- 18 soft yellow corn tortillas
- 6 cups Colby Jack cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Optional Garnishes
- 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes
- ½ cup thinly sliced green onions
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef and finely chopped yellow onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, drained Rotel tomatoes, drained black beans, salsa, and 1 cup water. Mix well and bring to a simmer. Let the mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large casserole dish.
- Layer the Casserole: Start by layering the soft yellow corn tortillas in the bottom of the casserole dish to cover the surface. Spoon and spread a portion of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas. Sprinkle a generous layer of freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese on top. Repeat layers—tortillas, beef mixture, cheese—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted bubbly and golden around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with diced Roma tomatoes, sliced green onions, and dollops of sour cream as desired. Cut into squares and serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier casserole, use medium or hot salsa and Rotel varieties.
- To make it gluten free, ensure taco seasoning and tortillas are verified gluten free.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This recipe can be doubled and cooked in a larger casserole dish for more servings.