Mexican Fiesta Layered Casserole (Printable Version)
Hearty layers of spiced meat, beans, corn, tomatoes, and cheese baked to bubbly perfection.
# What You'll Need:
→ Base
01 -
450g ground beef or ground turkey
02 -
1 small onion, diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Vegetables and Canned Goods
04 -
1 can (425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
05 -
1 can (425g) corn kernels, drained
06 -
1 can (425g) diced tomatoes with green chilies
→ Seasoning and Additional Ingredients
07 -
1 packet taco seasoning mix or homemade equivalent
08 -
1 cup (240g) salsa, medium or mild
09 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Assembly
10 -
6 small corn tortillas (approximately 15cm each), cut into quarters or strips
11 -
2 cups (200g) shredded Mexican cheese blend
→ Optional Garnishes
12 -
Sour cream
13 -
Avocado slices
14 -
Chopped fresh cilantro
15 -
Lime wedges
# Steps To Follow:
01 -
Preheat oven to 190°C. Lightly grease a 33x23 cm casserole dish.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground meat until browned and cooked through. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
03 -
Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir to blend, then let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
04 -
Arrange half the tortilla strips to cover the bottom of the prepared dish. Spread half of the meat and vegetable mixture evenly over the tortillas. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the cheese blend.
05 -
Layer the remaining tortilla strips, then add the rest of the meat mixture and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
06 -
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
07 -
Remove the foil and bake for 10 more minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
08 -
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve with lime wedges if desired.
# Notes and Tips:
01 -
For a visually striking presentation, serve in a cast-iron skillet or a rustic wood-toned dish.
02 -
Add fresh red chili or green onion slices for an extra pop of colour.
03 -
Pair with tortilla chips and lime wedges on the side for added texture and brightness.