A Hearty, Cheesy Layered Dish with Bold Southwestern Flavor
This Mexican Casserole is a comforting, one-pan dish that layers seasoned ground beef, beans, creamy soup, and crispy tortilla chips under a blanket of melted cheese. With green chilies for heat and a sprinkle of taco seasoning, it’s a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you crave something rich, savory, and full of flavor.
A family favorite that’s easy to customize and even easier to love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🥩 Ground Beef Base: Lean beef delivers savory richness without greasiness.
- 🌶️ Green Chili Kick: Ro-Tel tomatoes add tangy heat and vibrant color.
- 🧀 Cheesy Crown: Cheddar cheese melts into every layer for stretchy, golden goodness.
- 🥣 One-Pan Wonder: No boiling, no soaking—just layer, bake, and enjoy.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Ideal at family dinners, school events, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter version)
- 1 small onion , chopped (or ½ tsp onion powder)
- 1 (10 oz) can Ro-Tel tomatoes with green chilies (or diced tomatoes + 1 tbsp chopped jalapeños)
- 1 (15 oz) can Ranch-style beans (or refried beans for creamier texture)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for dairy-free)
- ½ cup water (or broth for extra depth)
- 1 (10–12 oz) bag crushed tortilla chips (or homemade corn tortilla strips)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, pepper jack, or vegan cheese)
For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salsa, guacamole, or pico de gallo
- Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or lime wedges
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Cook Beef
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) .
In a skillet over medium heat , brown ground beef and onion until fully cooked (5–7 minutes ).
Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Build the Filling
Stir in:
- Ro-Tel tomatoes
- Ranch-style beans
- Taco seasoning
- Cream of chicken soup
- Water or broth
Simmer for 5–7 minutes until heated through and flavors meld together.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil or cooking spray.
Layer ingredients as follows:
- Crushed tortilla chips (about ⅓ of the bag )
- Half of the beef mixture
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Repeat layers:
4. Crushed chips
5. Remaining beef mixture
6. Final 1 cup cheddar cheese
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20–30 minutes , or until the cheese is fully melted and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Serve Warm & Loaded
Ladle onto plates or serve directly from the pan.
Top with:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salsa, guacamole, or avocado slices
- A sprinkle of cilantro or green onions
Each bite brings together:
- Spiced, saucy beef and beans
- Crispy, salty tortilla crunch
- Stretchy, golden cheese pockets
- And that classic southwestern finish
Tips for Success:
- 🥣 Layer Smart: Crushed tortilla chips form a sturdy base—don’t overfill the dish to avoid overflow.
- 🧀 Cheese Swap Magic: Try pepper jack for extra spice or Gouda for smoky depth.
- 🌶️ Adjust Heat: Use mild Ro-Tel or omit green chilies for a milder version.
- 🥟 Tortilla Hack: Toast crushed chips lightly before layering for extra crispiness.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Assemble and refrigerate overnight—bake fresh when ready.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with rice, refried beans, or a green salad for a full meal.
- Great with beer, iced tea, or a cold glass of horchata.
- Ideal for game day, school lunches, or casual dinners .
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 – approximate):
(With regular cheese and beef – per plate)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~20g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~4g
This Mexican Casserole proves that bold flavors don’t have to come from complicated steps. With its cheesy layers, spicy filling, and crunchy chip crust—it’s a must-bake for lovers of hearty, comforting dishes.
Additional Notes:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortilla chips and cream of mushroom soup.
- Vegan Swap: Replace beef with lentils, use vegan cheese and soy yogurt for sour cream.
- Storage Tip: Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days—reheat gently.
- Flavor Hack: Stir in corn, black olives, or jalapeños for extra texture.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Double the batch and refrigerate for quick lunches or dinners.
