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If you are craving a hearty and flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef, Black Beans, Corn, and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with vibrant colors and layers of bold ingredients, it combines perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender black beans, sweet corn, and melty cheese all layered over crispy tortillas. Whether you’re feeding a family or want an easy meal to impress guests, this casserole delivers comfort and excitement on every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dish starts with simple, quality ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. This Mexican casserole is no exception—the straightforward components each play a crucial role in making this recipe shine.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, savory foundation full of meaty flavor and protein.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth that enhances the beef.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Brings that classic Mexican seasoning punch with spices like cumin and chili powder.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and fiber while balancing the meatiness.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained: Gives a touch of natural sweetness and crunch to contrast the other ingredients.
- 1 cup salsa (mild or hot): Infuses the casserole with tangy and spicy notes depending on your preference.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained: Adds juiciness and a subtle kick that brightens the overall flavor.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully to bind the layers and add gooey richness.
- 8 small corn tortillas, cut into quarters: Create a crispy, tender base and layers that soak up the tasty juices.
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional): Offers a cool, creamy contrast when layered or served on top.
- Fresh cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños (optional): Perfect garnish options that brighten and add freshness.
How to Make Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef, Black Beans, Corn, and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. This step develops the base flavor of your casserole while softening the onions to meld perfectly with the meat. Remember to drain any excess fat for a cleaner taste and texture.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Add the taco seasoning packet along with a quarter cup of water to the skillet. Stir everything well and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the seasoning infuses the beef and onions completely. This step is where your casserole gains its signature Mexican flair, full of warm herbs and spices.
Step 3: Incorporate Beans, Corn, Salsa, and Tomatoes
Stir in the drained black beans, corn, salsa, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is heated through and the flavors meld together. This mixture offers a vibrant, saucy, and hearty filling that’s far from boring—each spoonful delivering layers of texture and zest.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
In your prepared casserole dish, start layering with one-third of the tortilla quarters, spreading them evenly across the bottom. Follow this with one-third of the beef and bean mixture, then sprinkle with one-third of the shredded cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing off with a generous layer of cheese on top to ensure a perfectly melty, golden crust.
Step 5: Add Optional Sour Cream Layer
If you’re using sour cream, dollop it between the beef and cheese in the middle layer. This touch of creaminess adds a subtle tang and richness that elevates every bite, making the casserole even more indulgent and satisfying.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This baking process brings the dish together, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully and the textures to become a perfect harmony of crisp and gooey.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This resting period helps everything set nicely for cleaner slices and makes serving a breeze. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or sliced jalapeños to add vibrant color, fresh brightness, and an optional spicy kick that complements the rich casserole perfectly.
How to Serve Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef, Black Beans, Corn, and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To really make this Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef, Black Beans, Corn, and Cheese Recipe sing, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or sliced green onions. A few rings of jalapeños add heat and a pop of color, while dollops of sour cream offer a cool and creamy contrast. These simple touches transform each serving into a vibrant, restaurant-quality delight.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with traditional sides such as a crisp green salad with a lime vinaigrette, Mexican rice, or warm refried beans. For an extra festive meal, serve with guacamole, tortilla chips, or pickled jalapeños. These sides not only complement the flavors but also add variety in texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. Alternatively, top portions with a fried egg or crispy avocado slices for brunch-worthy flair. You can also scoop it into crispy taco shells or use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers to switch things up while enjoying all the familiar flavors of this beloved Mexican classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and you just might because this casserole is irresistible), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it an ideal make-ahead meal that keeps its flavor and texture well.
Freezing
This Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef, Black Beans, Corn, and Cheese Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it—cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra baking time, until hot and bubbly.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or heat the whole casserole at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Adding a splash of water before reheating helps maintain moisture and prevents drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef, Black Beans, Corn, and Cheese Recipe for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Is it necessary to drain the canned ingredients?
Yes, draining black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes helps prevent the casserole from becoming too watery and keeps the layers intact for a great texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the ground beef and add extra beans, vegetables like bell peppers, or meat substitutes to keep the same hearty, delicious profile.
What kind of cheese works best?
A shredded Mexican blend cheese is ideal as it melts smoothly and blends flavors like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla, but feel free to use your favorite cheeses for a personal twist.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day before baking, cover it, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
Final Thoughts
There is just something so comforting and satisfying about this Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef, Black Beans, Corn, and Cheese Recipe. It’s a beautiful balance of textures, bold flavors, and ease that makes it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. I truly hope you give it a try and discover how quickly it can become one of your go-to meals to share with loved ones, time after time.
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Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef, Black Beans, Corn, and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Mexican Casserole is a hearty and flavorful layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, salsa, and diced tomatoes, all baked with layers of tortillas and melted Mexican cheese. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck meal. Optional sour cream and fresh garnishes add creamy and fresh notes to this vibrant casserole.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup salsa (mild or hot, your choice)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 8 small corn tortillas (or flour, if preferred), cut into quarters
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for layering or topping)
- Fresh cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion until the beef is fully browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess fat for a leaner casserole.
- Season the Meat Mixture: Add the taco seasoning packet and 1/4 cup of water to the skillet with the beef. Stir well and allow it to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Add Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes: Stir in the drained black beans, corn, salsa, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to warm all ingredients thoroughly.
- Layer the Casserole: Begin layering your casserole in the prepared dish. Place one-third of the quartered tortillas evenly on the bottom. Add one-third of the beef and vegetable mixture on top, followed by one-third of the shredded cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Add Sour Cream (Optional): If you prefer, dollop sour cream between the beef and cheese layers in the middle layer to add creaminess and tang.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to help it set. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or sliced jalapeños if desired.
- Serve: Serve warm with extra sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite hot sauce on the side for added flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free meal; flour tortillas if preferred.
- If you want extra heat, opt for a hot salsa or add jalapeños inside the casserole layers.
- Sour cream is optional but adds creaminess when layered or served on top.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat nicely.
- Customize the vegetables to your liking by adding bell peppers or olives.
