There’s something truly comforting about a hearty, cheesy casserole, and this Mexican Cheesy Beef Casserole is no exception. It’s packed with layers of seasoned beef, chili beans, zesty Rotel, and melty cheddar cheese—all wrapped up in warm corn tortillas. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a meal-prep-friendly dish, this casserole is a perfect choice.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Cheesy Beef Casserole
- Quick & Easy: Uses simple pantry staples and can be prepped in under 20 minutes.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers all week.
- Customizable: Swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this cheesy, beefy dish.
“This casserole has been a lifesaver on busy nights! I love that it comes together quickly and is full of flavor.” – A happy home cook
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 pound, cooked |
| Taco Seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
| Chili Beans (or homemade ranch beans) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Rotel (or diced tomatoes + green chilies) | 1 can (10 oz) |
| Crushed Tomatoes | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Corn Tortillas | 10 small tortillas |
| Sour Cream | 1 cup |
| Cheddar Cheese (or Colby Jack/Mexican blend) | 2 cups, shredded |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. If using pre-cooked beef, simply reheat it in the skillet. Drain excess grease, then add taco seasoning and mix well. Stir in chili beans, Rotel, and crushed tomatoes. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the ingredients as follows:
- Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom.
- Place a layer of corn tortillas on top.
- Spread half of the sour cream evenly over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Avoiding Common Mistakes: If your casserole turns out watery, you might find this Why is My Broccoli Casserole Watery? guide helpful!
Cooking Tips for the Best Mexican Cheesy Beef Casserole
- Use fresh cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grate your own for the best results.
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking so it holds together better when sliced.
- Customize the spice level: Add extra chili powder or jalapeños for a spicier version.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the beef for black beans and bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is fantastic on its own, but you can serve it with:
- A side of Mexican rice
- Fresh avocado slices or guacamole
- Crisp lettuce and diced tomatoes for a fresh contrast
- Pickled jalapeños for extra heat
Want to level up your guacamole? Check out this guide to making perfect guacamole from a professional chef!
Perfect Drink Pairings
Complement this dish with a refreshing beverage:
- Horchata: A sweet, creamy cinnamon rice drink.
- Margaritas: A classic lime margarita pairs perfectly with the flavors in this casserole.
- Mexican Lager: Light and crisp, a great match for cheesy dishes.
Storage & Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave option: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Sodium | 750mg |
“This casserole is always a hit at our family gatherings. The kids love it, and it’s so easy to put together!” – A satisfied home cook
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Mexican Cheesy Beef Casserole Recipe
This Mexican Cheesy Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—layers of seasoned beef, chili beans, Rotel, and melted cheddar cheese, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas. It’s an easy, meal-prep-friendly dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef, cooked
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans (or ranch beans)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes + green chilies)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
Casserole Layers
- 10 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Beef Mixture
Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Add taco seasoning and mix well. Stir in chili beans, Rotel, and crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
2️⃣ Layer the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer as follows:
- Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture.
- Place a layer of corn tortillas.
- Spread half the sour cream evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
3️⃣ Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Notes
💡 Use fresh cheese for better melting—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents.
⏳ Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep layers intact.
🔥 Spice it up by adding diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese.
🌱 Make it vegetarian by swapping beef for black beans and bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture. However, corn tortillas hold up better in layers and provide a more authentic flavor.
How do I make this casserole spicier?
If you love heat, add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. Spicy shredded cheese blends, like pepper jack, also enhance the heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What’s the best way to freeze this casserole?
To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a leaner option. You may need to add a little extra taco seasoning since turkey has a milder flavor.
More Ways to Customize This Mexican Cheesy Beef Casserole
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Here are some variations to make it suit your taste:
- Swap the meat: Instead of beef, try shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even chorizo for a smokier flavor.
- Go meatless: Use black beans, pinto beans, or grilled vegetables instead of ground beef.
- Add extra veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can add depth and nutrition.
- Use a different cheese: Monterey Jack, queso fresco, or a spicy pepper jack cheese all work well.
- Make it creamy: Mix a little cream cheese or Greek yogurt into the beef mixture for an extra creamy consistency.
Restaurant-Quality Presentation Tips
If you’re serving this casserole for guests, a few small touches can make it feel like a restaurant-quality dish.
- Garnish generously: Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and crumbled cotija cheese add vibrant color and flavor.
- Use a cast iron skillet: Baking and serving in a cast iron skillet gives it a rustic, authentic look.
- Serve with homemade salsa: A side of fresh pico de gallo or salsa verde complements the flavors beautifully.
- Add a drizzle: A squeeze of lime juice or a light drizzle of Mexican crema just before serving enhances the dish.
What to Serve with Mexican Cheesy Beef Casserole
This dish is satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, consider serving it with:
- Mexican Street Corn: A tangy, cheesy side that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A light, zesty side dish that complements the richness of the casserole.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and flavorful, these beans add an authentic touch.
- Fresh Salad: A simple salad with avocado, tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette balances the meal.
How This Casserole Became a Family Favorite
“The first time I made this Mexican Cheesy Beef Casserole, I was looking for a quick dinner that could use up some pantry staples. My family loved it so much that it became a regular on our menu. Now, it’s my go-to dish for busy weeknights and potlucks alike!”
There’s something special about a meal that brings people together. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is always a hit. The warm, cheesy layers and bold Mexican flavors make it a comforting favorite that everyone will request again and again.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal, this Mexican Cheesy Beef Casserole is a must-try. With simple ingredients, rich flavors, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you make it for a busy weeknight dinner or prep it ahead for a gathering, this casserole delivers big on taste and convenience.
“One bite of this casserole, and you’ll see why it’s a family favorite. It’s cheesy, hearty, and absolutely irresistible!”
More Delicious Recipes: If you loved this, you might also enjoy:
✔️ Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
✔️ Cheesy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Wraps
✔️ Velveeta Broccoli Casserole