This Cheesy Tortilla Meat Bake is a delicious, comforting dish that combines layers of seasoned meat, melty cheese, and soft tortillas into a casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Packed with bold flavors and gooey cheese, it’s a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 500 g (1 lb) ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (30 g) taco seasoning or homemade taco seasoning
- 1 cup (250 ml) tomato sauce or salsa
- 1 can (400 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup (250 g) frozen corn, thawed
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 large flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for gluten-free)
- ½ cup (120 g) sour cream (optional, for serving)
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato sauce or salsa. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add black beans and corn to the skillet. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.
- Layer the casserole: Place a tortilla on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread a layer of the meat mixture over the tortilla, sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and repeat until all tortillas, meat, and cheese are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the bake cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with sour cream and cilantro, if desired.
5 Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
- Pair with a fresh green salad topped with avocado slices.
- Add a dollop of guacamole or pico de gallo on top for extra flavor.
- Serve with tortilla chips and a side of queso dip for dipping.
- Pair with a refreshing lime margarita or iced tea.
Cooking Tips:
- For a spicier bake, use spicy salsa and add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- Substitute the ground meat with shredded chicken or plant-based meat for variety.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version.
- Add a layer of sliced bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies.
- Let the casserole rest before slicing to allow the layers to set.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein from the ground meat and beans.
- Fiber-rich black beans and corn support digestion.
- Calcium from the cheese promotes strong bones.
- Tomatoes in the sauce provide vitamins A and C.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten and dairy.
- Can be made gluten-free by using corn tortillas.
- To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cheese alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbs: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or in the microwave until warmed through.
- This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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- It’s a crowd-pleaser with bold, cheesy flavors.
- Easy to prepare with simple, customizable ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a family.
- Combines the best of tacos and casseroles into one hearty dish.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Tortilla Meat Bake is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of seasoned meat, beans, and gooey cheese, this casserole is easy to make and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Serve it with your favorite toppings and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
10 Frequently Asked Questions with Answers:
- Can I use chicken instead of ground beef?
Yes, shredded or ground chicken works great in this recipe. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. - Can I use corn tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas are a great option and make the dish gluten-free. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are great additions. - What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend works wonderfully. - Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cheese and omit the sour cream topping. - How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?
Ensure the meat mixture isn’t too watery by simmering it until thickened. - What toppings go well with this dish?
Guacamole, salsa, sour cream, cilantro, and diced tomatoes are excellent options. - Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or use spicy salsa for a kick.