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Assembling the layers of the cheesy ground beef casserole in a baking dish, showing the seasoned beef mixture and tortilla strips.

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole (The Ultimate Cheesy Recipe!)

This easy Mexican Ground Beef Casserole is a flavor-packed weeknight dinner solution. Layered with seasoned beef, corn, black beans, and tons of cheese, it's a family-friendly meal that's ready in under an hour and guaranteed to please.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef 85/15 or 90/10 recommended
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 oz taco seasoning 1 packet
  • 15 oz canned black beans rinsed and drained
  • 15 oz canned corn drained
  • 10 oz red enchilada sauce
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 10 corn tortillas cut into 1-inch strips
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Stir in the taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and sour cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Assemble the casserole: Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture in the bottom of the dish. Top with half the tortilla strips, half the remaining beef mixture, and half the cheese.
  6. Repeat the layers: Add the rest of the tortilla strips, the remaining beef mixture, and finish with the final layer of cheese.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before garnishing with cilantro and serving.

Notes

Tip 1: For the best results, shred your own cheese from a block. It melts much better than pre-shredded varieties.
Tip 2: This casserole is a great make-ahead meal. Assemble it completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.