This hearty and flavorful Mexican Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, zesty tomatoes, and gooey cheese—all brought together with crunchy tortilla chips. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Top it with sour cream and salsa for an extra burst of flavor!
📋 Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 can Ranch Style beans (or any seasoned bean variety)
- 1 10–12 ounce bag tortilla chips, crushed (reserve some for topping if desired)
- 1 can Ro-tel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup water
- Sour cream and salsa (for serving)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat.
- Stir in the Ranch Style beans , Ro-tel tomatoes , chopped onion , taco seasoning , cream of chicken soup , and water .
- Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes , stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In the prepared casserole dish, create the first layer by spreading a portion of the crushed tortilla chips evenly across the bottom.
- Add half of the meat/bean mixture on top of the chips, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer.
- Repeat the layers: add another layer of crushed tortilla chips , followed by the remaining meat/bean mixture , and top with the remaining cheddar cheese .
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil .
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–30 minutes , or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden around the edges.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
- Top with sour cream and salsa for added flavor and creaminess. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Tortilla Chips: Use plain or lightly salted tortilla chips for the best results. Crush them into bite-sized pieces, but not too fine—they should still provide texture.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar cheese for a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack for a more authentic flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing mild, medium, or hot Ro-tel tomatoes based on your preference. For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Customizations: Add extras like black olives, diced bell peppers, or corn for more flavor and color.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole ahead of time (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mexican Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors, creamy textures, and crunchy tortilla chips into one satisfying dish. It’s incredibly easy to assemble, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. The layers of seasoned beef, cheesy goodness, and zesty toppings create a symphony of taste that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or looking for something fun to serve at your next gathering, this casserole delivers big on flavor and convenience. Dive in and savor every bite!
