Name: Easy Layered Ground Beef Mexican Taco Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can refried beans; 1½ cups salsa, divided; ¼ cup taco seasoning; ¾ cup water; 1 cup sour cream; 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 6 burrito size flour tortillas; 2 fresh tomatoes, diced; ¼ cup cilantro, chopped

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If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing, comforting meal that’s bursting with bold flavors, look no further than this Easy Layered Ground Beef Mexican Taco Casserole Recipe. It’s like all your favorite Mexican ingredients came together to throw a fiesta right in your oven. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, tangy salsa, melty cheddar cheese, and soft flour tortillas, every bite delivers a perfect harmony of textures and vibrant tastes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or serving up for friends, this casserole is guaranteed to become an instant staple in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the top left corner, there are three stacked white tortillas. To the right of the tortillas, there is an open can filled with a light brown sauce. Below the tortillas, there is a wooden bowl full of shredded yellow cheese. Next to the cheese, there is a glass jar with red salsa inside. Below the salsa, there is a pile of raw ground meat resting on white parchment paper. To the right of the meat, there is a white bowl filled with a brown dry spice mix. Above the spice mix is a small clear bowl containing white sour cream. Next to the sour cream is a small glass of water. Two whole red tomatoes are placed side by side near the water. Finally, at the bottom right corner, there is a bunch of fresh green cilantro. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Using simple pantry staples, the ingredients for this Easy Layered Ground Beef Mexican Taco Casserole Recipe combine to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the seasoned beef bringing savory notes to the creamy sour cream adding just the right touch of tang and moisture.

1 lb ground beef: This provides the hearty protein base that makes the casserole filling and flavorful.
1 can refried beans: Adds creaminess and depth, binding the layers together perfectly.
1½ cups salsa (divided): Brings a bright, zesty kick that livens up every bite.
¼ cup taco seasoning: Infuses the beef with authentic Mexican spices for that signature taste.
¾ cup water: Helps to simmer the taco seasoning and keep the beef moist and tender.
1 cup sour cream: Adds richness and a cooling contrast to the spices.
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create gooey, cheesy layers throughout.
6 burrito size flour tortillas: Soft and flexible, they hold all the layers snugly without falling apart.
2 fresh tomatoes (diced): For a fresh, juicy finish when sprinkled on top.
¼ cup cilantro (chopped): Adds a pop of herbal brightness and color.

How to Make Easy Layered Ground Beef Mexican Taco Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and browning your ground beef. This is where all the savory flavors build as the meat cooks and develops a nice color. Don’t forget to drain off the grease so your casserole won’t turn out greasy.

Step 2: Simmer with Taco Seasoning

Next, add the water and taco seasoning to the browned beef. This step melds the spices deeply into the meat. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep all those zesty flavors locked in.

Step 3: Combine with Refried Beans and Salsa

Now stir in the refried beans and half a cup of salsa to the beef mixture. This creamy, slightly tangy addition adds extra layers of flavor and moisture, making the filling rich and irresistible. When combined, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

Step 4: Mix Sour Cream and Salsa

In a medium bowl, blend together the remaining 1 cup of salsa and the sour cream until smooth. This dreamy mixture will add a luscious, creamy layer to the casserole, balancing all the spices perfectly.

Step 5: Prepare and Layer Your Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, layer your casserole starting with 2 tortillas on the bottom. Spread about ⅔ cup of the sour cream mixture over the tortillas, followed by a third of the beef mixture, and top that with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times, tearing tortillas as needed to cover the layers completely without pushing tortillas up the sides. Finally, top everything with the last 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible golden finish.

Step 6: Bake to Melty Perfection

Bake the casserole uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly throughout all the layers. This step creates that perfect gooey texture everyone loves. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Easy Layered Ground Beef Mexican Taco Casserole Recipe

A pan filled with thick brown chili, showing chunks of ground meat and beans in a rich sauce. A wooden spoon rests inside the pan, slightly covered with the chili. Above the pan, there is a wooden bowl full of shredded orange-yellow cheddar cheese. To the right of the cheese, two whole red tomatoes with green stems sit beside a clear glass bowl full of sour cream. In the lower right corner, fresh green cilantro leaves are visible. The surface under everything has a white marbled texture, and a white and blue striped cloth is partially under the pan at the lower left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling fresh chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes on top of the hot casserole adds a lovely burst of color and a fresh, zesty contrast that elevates each bite. You can also add sliced jalapeños or a dollop of guacamole for extra flair.

Side Dishes

Pairing this casserole with simple sides like a crisp green salad or Mexican street corn slaw makes for a balanced, satisfying meal. A bowl of tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole on the side also complements the layers of cheesy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Easy Layered Ground Beef Mexican Taco Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or small baking dishes to give everyone their own personal taco fiesta. You can also turn leftovers into taco bowls by scooping out servings into crispy taco shells topped with lettuce and avocado slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers actually have time to meld even more, making the flavors richer the next day.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, but baking helps preserve the layers’ texture best.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, you can substitute or mix in Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a Mexican blend for different flavor profiles.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground meat alternative, and follow the same layering steps.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it fresh just before serving for convenience.

What’s the best way to prevent tortillas from getting soggy?

Tearing tortillas to fit snugly and layering carefully helps. Also, be sure to not overload with too much wet filling and bake until bubbly to keep the layers distinct.

How spicy is this casserole?

The spice level depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you choose. For a milder dish, pick mild seasonings; for more heat, use spicy salsa or add jalapeños.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Layered Ground Beef Mexican Taco Casserole Recipe is a wonderful way to bring vibrant Mexican flavors together in one cozy, cheesy dish. It’s straightforward enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to impress guests. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your home too!