If you’ve been hunting for a cozy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying meal to brighten any weeknight, this Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Packed with zesty ground beef, hearty beans, crunchy tortilla chips, and melty cheese, every bite brings a comforting burst of Mexican-inspired goodness. It’s a simple layering of ingredients that transforms into a rich, bubbly casserole perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests without a fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it again and again because it’s just that good.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started couldn’t be easier because this recipe uses straightforward ingredients, each playing an important role in building a casserole that’s loaded with flavor, texture, and color. The balance of creamy, crunchy, spicy, and savory elements is what makes this dish shine.
- Lean ground beef: A classic base that adds hearty protein and juicy richness.
- Ranch Style beans: Creamy and seasoned, they bring depth and smoothness to the mix.
- Tortilla chips: Crushed for a crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy fillings.
- Ro-tel tomatoes: They add just the right kick of spicy, tangy tomato flavor.
- Small onion, chopped: For a subtle sweetness and crunch to brighten the dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Divided into two portions to create gooey layers and a golden top.
- Taco seasoning packet: The seasoning magic that brings authentic Mexican flavor.
- Cream of chicken soup: Acts as the creamy binder holding everything together perfectly.
- Water: To help simmer everything just right and keep it moist.
- Sour cream and salsa: Essential toppings to add freshness and a cool, zesty finish.
How to Make Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and generously grease it to ensure the layers don’t stick and slide around when it’s time to serve. Setting up the oven and pan at the beginning will make the assembly smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked and nicely crumbly. Drain the fat to keep the casserole from getting greasy. Next, fold in the Ranch Style beans, Ro-tel tomatoes, chopped onion, taco seasoning, cream of chicken soup, and water. Let this rich mixture simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes. Simmering helps the flavors marry and the sauce thicken slightly, giving the casserole that creamy, comforting texture.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Here’s where the magic happens—spread a generous layer of crushed tortilla chips on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. This crispy base forms the perfect contrast to the creamy beef mixture that follows. Spoon over half of the beef and bean concoction, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers once more to build a casserole that’s both structured and packed with flavor on every level.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and prevent the cheese from over-browning. Pop it into the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted through, sending wonderful aromas wafting through your kitchen.
Step 5: Let It Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This brief wait lets everything settle, making it easier to slice and serve. Offer sour cream and salsa on the side or spooned on top so every serving can be customized with creamy coolness and spicy zing.
How to Serve Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can take this casserole from great to absolutely spectacular. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or green onions over the top for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. Adding slices of ripe avocado or a squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a refreshing element that perfectly balances the cheesy, savory layers.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole with light and vibrant sides such as a crisp green salad, Mexican street corn, or a simple bowl of black beans. These sides complement the hearty casserole without overpowering it, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz it up for a gathering, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for personal portions. You can also layer it in a clear glass dish so the beautiful layers are visible—a feast for the eyes as well as the palate!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are just as delightful as the fresh bake, so store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This casserole keeps well for up to 3 days, and the flavors meld together even more, making the next-day meal incredibly satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble it fully but do not bake—wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or place the entire casserole back in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until heated through. This keeps the texture intact and prevents drying out.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative works wonderfully in this Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe. Just adjust the seasoning as needed to maintain that bold flavor.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or don’t have cream of chicken soup, use cream of mushroom or make a simple homemade white sauce. Either will provide the creamy texture that binds this casserole beautifully.
Is this casserole spicy?
The casserole has a mild to moderate spice level from the Ro-tel tomatoes and taco seasoning, but you can easily adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot varieties of these ingredients or adding fresh jalapeños for extra kick.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, this recipe is fantastic for make-ahead meals. Prepare up to the assembly stage, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s perfect for busy days or meal prepping.
How many servings does this Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe make?
This recipe yields about 6 to 8 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe is one of those heartwarming dishes that’s as simple as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and full bellies. So grab those ingredients, make a little kitchen magic, and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite with your favorite people.
Print
Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Easy Mexican Casserole Recipe is a delicious, comforting dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and tortilla chips topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it combines bold Mexican flavors with a creamy texture and crispy tortilla crunch, baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 can Ranch Style beans
- 1 can Ro-tel tomatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup water
- 1 10-12 ounce bag tortilla chips, crushed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Sour cream for serving
- Salsa for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked, then drain off any fat. Add in the Ranch Style beans, Ro-tel tomatoes, chopped onion, taco seasoning, cream of chicken soup, and water. Stir well and simmer for 5-10 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Next, layer half of the beef and bean mixture over the chips, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to set. Serve topped with sour cream and salsa for added creaminess and zest.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option and less grease.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add chopped jalapeños or use spicy Ro-tel tomatoes.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or extra beans.
- Crush tortilla chips just enough to create a base, but not into powder for texture.
- If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, a homemade white sauce or cream of mushroom soup can be used.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead: assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
