Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole is what I make when we want something tasty and filling for dinner. This recipe brings together layers of tortillas, seasoned beef, and melted cheese that everyone loves. You can prep it ahead of time, so it works great for busy weeknights. But also, it has all the flavors we crave from Mexican food in one easy dish.

Then when you bake it, your kitchen smells amazing and so does your whole house. It feeds a crowd and makes great leftovers too.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

This casserole gives you all the comfort of Mexican flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. The layers create the perfect bite every time – you get crispy edges, gooey cheese, and tender vegetables. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings and make it as spicy or mild as you like. The best part? It’s a complete meal in one dish that feeds the whole family.

Ingredients in Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

• 2 lbs 93% lean ground beef (or meatless crumbles)
• 1/4 cup reduced sodium taco seasoning
• 12 medium corn tortillas
• 15 oz can fat-free refried beans
• 1/2 cup white or yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cups red and green bell peppers, chopped
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups sweet corn, canned or thawed from frozen
• 4 oz can diced green chilies (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 8 oz can red enchilada sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican or cheddar cheese (can use dairy-free)

How To Make Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Place 6 corn tortillas on the bottom of your dish, overlapping them slightly. Save the other 6 tortillas for the second layer.

Step 3: Warm the refried beans in the microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. This makes them easier to spread. Use a spoon to spread half the beans over the tortillas.

Step 4: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet and add the taco seasoning. Spread half of this seasoned beef over the beans in your casserole dish.

Step 5: In the same skillet, cook the onions and bell peppers with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender.

Step 6: Add the corn, cilantro, and green chilies to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Spread half the vegetable mixture over the beef layer, then pour half the enchilada sauce on top. Sprinkle 3/4 cup of cheese over everything.

Step 8: Repeat all the layers again – 6 more tortillas, remaining beans, remaining beef, remaining vegetables, remaining enchilada sauce, and remaining cheese.

Step 9: Bake for 30 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the casserole heats through.

Step 10: Let it cool for 5 minutes, then cut into 6-8 portions.

Expert Tips

Use a meat thermometer to make sure your ground beef reaches 160°F for food safety. If your tortillas seem dry, brush them lightly with oil before layering. Don’t skip letting the casserole rest after baking – this helps the layers set up so they don’t fall apart when you serve. For extra flavor, try mixing different types of cheese or adding a pinch of smoked paprika to your beef.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in the refrigerator for up to one week in airtight containers. For longer storage, wrap individual portions and freeze for up to one month. To reheat, microwave single portions for 1-2 minutes or warm the whole dish in a 300°F oven until heated through. Frozen portions should be thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve with Mexican Ground Beef Casserole?

This casserole pairs perfectly with fresh guacamole, sour cream, and chopped green onions on top. Serve it alongside a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette or some Mexican rice. Tortilla chips and salsa make great sides too. For drinks, try iced tea with lime or a cold beer to balance the spicy flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

What if I don’t have corn tortillas?
Flour tortillas work fine, though they’ll have a slightly different texture. You can also use tortilla chips for a crunchier version.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, extra beans, or diced vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.

How do I know when it’s done?
The cheese should be fully melted and bubbly, and the edges should be lightly golden. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

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