Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Casserole Mexicaine is a bold, zesty, and satisfying layered bake filled with Tex-Mex flavors. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, salsa, and gooey cheese, all stacked between soft tortillas or rice, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal prepping. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to customize.

ingredients

Best Casserole Mexicaine Recipe 10 The Best Casserole Mexicaine is a bold, zesty, and satisfying layered bake filled with Tex-Mex flavors. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, salsa, and gooey cheese, all stacked between soft tortillas or rice, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal prepping. It's comforting, flavorful, and easy to customize.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef (or ground turkey)taco seasoningonion (chopped)garlic (minced)black beans (drained and rinsed)corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)diced tomatoes (drained)salsa (your favorite variety)flour tortillas (or cooked rice)shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blendolive oilsalt and pepperfresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.

Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and salsa. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened slightly.

Layer the bottom of the baking dish with tortillas or cooked rice.

Spread a portion of the meat mixture over the base, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.

Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese on top.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.

Add a layer of sour cream or cream cheese between layers for creaminess.

Top with sliced jalapeños or olives for extra flavor.

Make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding bell peppers or zucchini.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave single servings for 1-2 minutes.Freeze unbaked or baked portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead?

Yes, assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I have to use tortillas?

No, cooked rice works just as well for layering.

Is it spicy?

It depends on your salsa and seasoning—adjust to your heat preference.

Can I use refried beans?

Yes, they add a creamy texture and deeper flavor.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melt beautifully.

Can I freeze this?

Yes, it freezes well both before and after baking.

Is it gluten-free?

Use corn tortillas or rice to make it gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work well.

How do I keep it from being soggy?

Drain canned ingredients and don’t overdo the salsa.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish or make two casseroles.

Conclusion

The Best Casserole Mexicaine is your go-to for easy, delicious comfort food with a Mexican twist. It’s flavorful, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for later. With customizable layers and endless topping options, this casserole will become a regular favorite in your recipe rotation.