When you need a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that brings the whole family to the table, this Mexican casserole delivers every time. Think of it as the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining all your favorite taco flavors in one bubbling, cheesy dish. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, melted cheese, and soft corn tortillas, it’s like a deconstructed taco that’s been transformed into pure comfort food magic.
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Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole succeeds because it balances textures and flavors perfectly. The corn tortillas soften during baking, creating a lasagna-like base, while the combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses provides both creaminess and sharp flavor. The Ro-Tel tomatoes add just the right amount of spice and acidity to cut through the richness, while the cream of chicken soup binds everything together without making it heavy.
Ingredients
- Ground beef – Forms the protein base and absorbs all the taco seasoning flavors
- Lawry’s taco seasoning packets – Provides an authentic Mexican spice blend and seasoning
- Chopped onion – Adds sweetness and texture to complement the beef
- Pinto beans – Contribute fiber, protein, and creamy texture
- Ro-Tel tomatoes – Brings tangy heat and moisture to the casserole
- Cream of chicken soup – Creates a creamy binding sauce for all ingredients
- Corn tortillas – Serves as the casserole’s foundation and structure
- Monterey Jack cheese – Melts beautifully and adds mild, creamy flavor
- Cheddar cheese – Provides sharp, tangy flavor and golden color on top
Chef’s Notes
For extra flavor, sauté the onions with the ground beef instead of mixing them raw with the cheese. You can also add a layer of sour cream between the meat and final tortilla layer for extra richness. If you prefer more heat, use hot Ro-Tel tomatoes or add diced jalapeños.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Reheating Method: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes
- Freezing: Freeze assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking
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Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef browned and drained
- 2 packages Lawry’s taco seasoning follow directions on package
- 1 cup chopped onion white or green
- 1 can pinto beans drained
- 1 can Ro-Tel Tomatoes
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 pound shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Heat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat thoroughly.
- Season the Meat: Add taco seasoning packets to the beef, following package directions. This usually involves adding water and simmering for a few minutes.
- Prepare Cheese Mixtures: In a small bowl, combine the cheddar cheese with a handful of Monterey Jack for the topping. In another bowl, mix the remaining Monterey Jack cheese with the chopped onions.
- Combine Meat and Beans: Mix the drained pinto beans with the seasoned ground beef in the skillet.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, stir together the Ro-Tel tomatoes and cream of chicken soup until well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: Line the bottom of your prepared baking dish with corn tortillas, overlapping slightly. Add the meat and bean mixture, then sprinkle with the cheese and onion mixture. Top with remaining corn tortillas.
- Add Final Touches: Spread the tomato and soup mixture evenly over the top layer of tortillas. Sprinkle with the reserved cheese mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes until cheese is melted and casserole is heated through.
- Rest and Serve: Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting to allow layers to set.
Best casserole in own!
Your all recipes are very good! thank you
I found this recipe on here years ago and have been making it ever since. One of my absolute favorites!!