The Mexican casserole recipe is a beloved comfort food that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your dinner table. It’s a delightful fusion of bold spices, creamy cheese, tender meat, and hearty beans layered or mixed into a one-dish wonder. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a crowd, or prepping meals for the week, this dish offers both convenience and flavor.
This casserole is inspired by traditional Mexican dishes like enchiladas and tacos but assembled with a more accessible, all-in-one twist. It’s known for its rich textures—creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of crunch—and is endlessly customizable to suit any palate.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic Mexican casserole:
Base Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
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1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
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1 cup salsa (medium or hot, your preference)
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1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
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2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Optional/Substitutions:
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Vegetarian: Swap meat for extra beans or sautéed mushrooms.
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Low-carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
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Gluten-free: Ensure taco seasoning and salsa are gluten-free.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). -
Cook the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onions and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease. -
Add Flavor
Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, and salsa. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors. -
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice with the meat mixture. Add half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Mix well. -
Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. -
Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. -
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving. Let it rest for 5 minutes to set.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking rice before baking (it may become mushy)
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Not draining canned goods well – excess liquid can water down the casserole
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Using low-moisture cheese – choose freshly shredded for best melt
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Layer for Texture: If you prefer a layered dish (like a lasagna), you can alternate layers of tortillas with the filling.
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Add Crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips or jalapeño slices before serving.
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Cheese Matters: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged.
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Bake in Advance: Make it a day ahead and refrigerate—flavors develop overnight.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian Version: Use sweet potatoes or zucchini instead of meat.
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Spicy Kick: Add chipotle in adobo or a diced jalapeño to the filling.
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Breakfast Casserole: Mix in scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage.
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Tex-Mex Twist: Layer with flour tortillas and enchilada sauce.
Serving Suggestions
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Garnishes: Top with sour cream, avocado slices, fresh lime juice, or green onions.
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Pairings: Serve with tortilla chips, guacamole, or a fresh green salad.
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Drinks: Try with a margarita, horchata, or sparkling water with lime.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1/8 of the dish)
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Calories: ~450
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Protein: 26g
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Fat: 22g
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Fiber: 6g
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Sodium: 680mg
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Let it cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, leftovers last 3–4 days in the fridge.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the sour cream garnish.
How do I avoid a soggy casserole?
Drain all canned ingredients thoroughly and don’t over-sauce the mixture.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re craving something comforting, need a crowd-pleasing dish, or just love bold flavors, this Mexican casserole recipe is a winner. It’s simple, customizable, and bursting with personality in every bite. Give it a try—and don’t forget to share your spin on it! Got questions or your own twist to share? Drop them in the comments!
