Mexican Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this dish because it combines everything I crave in a single bite: tender tortillas, zesty beef, creamy sour cream, and gooey cheese. It’s layered like a lasagna but with bold southwestern flavors that make it exciting every time. I also love that it’s family-friendly, easy to put together, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
¼ cup water
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
½ cup sour cream
6 small flour tortillas, cut into strips
1 and ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen corn
¼ cup chopped green onions
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Nonstick spray

Directions

1. I begin by preheating my oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned, breaking it into small pieces. I drain any excess grease.

3. I stir in the garlic and taco seasoning, then add the water and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

4. I mix in the black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce. I let it simmer for another 3–5 minutes before removing from heat. I then stir in the sour cream to create a creamy, flavorful base.

5. In the prepared baking dish, I spread half the tortilla strips across the bottom. I spoon half the beef mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with a layer of cheese.

6. I repeat with the remaining tortilla strips, beef mixture, and cheese.

7. I bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is golden, bubbling, and slightly crispy at the edges.

8. I let it rest for a few minutes before topping with chopped green onions and cilantro.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I use corn tortillas instead of flour for a different texture. If I want it spicier, I add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture. For a lighter version, I swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. I also like adding sautéed bell peppers or zucchini to sneak in more veggies.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or I microwave individual portions. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months—when reheating, I cover it with foil so the tortillas don’t dry out.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, I bake as directed.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, corn tortillas work great and add a more authentic flavor.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, I skip the beef and add more beans, veggies, or a plant-based meat substitute.

Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Yes, I often mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a fresh seasoning blend.

What cheese works best?

I love Mexican blend cheese, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack also melt beautifully.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, I freeze it after baking. I wrap it tightly, and when reheating, I cover it with foil and bake until warmed through.

How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

I lightly toast the tortilla strips before layering or keep the casserole uncovered while baking for a slightly crispier texture.

Can I add extra veggies?

Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach blend in well with the flavors.

What can I serve with this dish?

I like serving it with Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or chips and salsa.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of beef?

Yes, shredded chicken works perfectly as a substitute for the ground beef.

Conclusion

This Mexican Dish is one of my favorite casseroles because it delivers layers of bold flavors in every bite. I love how easy it is to prepare, how customizable it can be, and how well it feeds a crowd. With tortillas, beef, beans, corn, and plenty of cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food that never disappoints.