Description
A hearty Mexican-inspired casserole featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and flour tortillas, all smothered in a creamy sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 package taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
- 4–6 large flour tortillas
- 2–3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 can (4 ounces) green chilies, diced (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is translucent, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Add the taco seasoning and follow the package directions, typically adding some water and simmering for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, stirring until well blended. If using the optional diced green chilies, fold them into the sauce mixture for added flavor and mild heat.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread half of the refried beans evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the tortillas on top, tearing them as needed to create an even layer. Distribute half of the seasoned meat mixture over the tortillas, then pour half of the creamy sauce on top. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers once more with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
- Serve and Garnish
- Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a bright, fresh flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño to the meat mixture or use hot taco seasoning.
- You can prep this casserole a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.
- Try topping with diced avocado, fresh tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream when serving.
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey, low-fat sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg