Irresistible Mexican Ground Beef Casserole for Cozy Nights

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

After a long week filled with endless meetings and takeout dinners, my kitchen craved something comforting and truly homemade. That s when I decided to whip up a Mexican Ground Beef Casserole a dish bursting with flavor and warmth that would transport me straight to a vibrant fiesta.

The first time I pulled this dish out of the oven, the delightful aroma of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and spices immediately filled the air, wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. With layers of tortillas and a hearty filling, it not only satisfies my cravings for something hearty but also brings a sense of togetherness to the dinner table.

Perfect for sharing with loved ones or prepping for the week ahead, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious. It merges the fun of tacos with the ease of a one-dish meal. Ready to bring a little fiesta to your weeknight routine? Let me guide you through this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Why is Mexican Ground Beef Casserole a Must-Try?

Comforting, hearty layers: This casserole is loaded with meat, beans, and cheese, ensuring every bite is a delicious comfort.

Quick prep time: In as little as 5 minutes of prep, you ll be on your way to a scrumptious meal.

Family-friendly flavors: Everyone will love the familiar taco tastes, making it a hit among guests and family alike.

Easy to customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or beans for a personal touch.

Perfect for meal prep: Great for leftovers, it stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.

Whether you re just looking for a cozy dish or want to impress at dinner, this Mexican Ground Beef Casserole has got you covered!

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole Ingredients

Get ready for a delicious feast!

For the Casserole

• Ground beef the star of your casserole, providing rich flavor and protein.
• Yellow onion adds a sweet and savory base when sautéed.
• Garlic enhances the flavor profile with its aromatic goodness.
• Taco seasoning brings those vibrant Mexican flavors right into your dish; feel free to choose your favorite blend!
• Tomato paste helps to thicken the mixture while adding a rich tomato flavor.
• Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies that provide both heat and zest, a must for our casserole!
• Whole kernel corn sweet bites for a delightful contrast in texture.
• Black beans add fiber and richness while also boosting protein.
• Chili powder adds warmth and depth; adjust to your heat preference.
• Refried beans creates a creamy layer that binds all flavors together.
• Corn tortillas serve as a sturdy base and layer, making this casserole hearty.
• Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy topping.
• Cheddar cheese adds sharpness and a lovely golden color; use mild or sharp to suit your taste.
• Salt and pepper essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other ingredients.

With these ingredients ready to roll, your Mexican Ground Beef Casserole will soon be not just a recipe, but a cherished family favorite!

How to Make Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

1. Brown the beef: Over medium-high heat, brown the 2 lbs. of ground beef until fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside while allowing any excess fat to drain.

2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, sauté 1/2 medium yellow onion in a bit of oil until it s soft and translucent. Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Mix in seasonings: Return the cooked beef to the pot. Stir in the 2 packets of taco seasoning, 4 tablespoons of tomato paste, and water as per seasoning instructions. Let it simmer until the mixture thickens and the water has cooked down.

4. Combine the vegetables: Gently fold in the 2 cans of drained Rotel, 1 can of drained whole kernel corn, 1 can of drained black beans, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

5. Prep the cheese: In a bowl, combine the 2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to create a cheesy layer for the casserole.

6. Layer the tortillas: Line the bottom of your casserole dish with 6 corn tortillas, overlapping them to cover completely.

7. Add layers: Spread half of the 16 oz. can of refried beans over the tortillas. Layer with half of the beef mixture followed by half of the cheese mixture.

8. Repeat the process: Place another layer of 6 tortillas, followed by the remaining refried beans, the remaining beef mixture, and finally, the remaining cheese.

9. Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350 °F and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Rest and serve: Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes to set before garnishing with your favorite toppings. Dish out warm and enjoy!

Optional: Top with fresh cilantro or avocado for a burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Ground Beef Casserole layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef mixture and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance just store in an airtight container to maintain its flavor. Additionally, you can layer the tortillas and beans in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you re ready to enjoy your delicious meal, simply assemble the dish with the remaining ingredients, top with cheese, and bake it at 350 °F for about 30 minutes. This way, you ll enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort, allowing you to savor every bite just as if it were freshly made!

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole Variations

Let your creativity shine by customizing this delicious casserole to suit your taste and dietary needs!

• Ground Turkey: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner, lighter twist without sacrificing flavor.
• Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, extra veggies, or lentils for a hearty plant-based option that everyone will love.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free corn tortillas and check your taco seasoning and beans for gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat to awaken your taste buds!
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in pepper jack cheese for a zesty twist, or try feta for a Mediterranean flair to the classic casserole.
• Creamy Layers: Incorporate a layer of sour cream or cream cheese between the tortillas for a rich and creamy profile that enhances the dish.
• Chili Beans: Swap out black beans for chili beans or pinto beans for a different texture and flavor, adding a nice, hearty touch.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Toss in some diced bell peppers and corn salsa for a vibrant, crunchy texture that adds color and enhances the overall flavor.

Every variation opens the door to new delicious experiences that will leave you craving more!

Expert Tips for Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

• Add More Veggies: Consider tossing in bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor while making the Mexican Ground Beef Casserole.

• Avoid Soggy Tortillas: To prevent sogginess, ensure that the beef mixture isn t too watery before layering it with the tortillas.

• Layer Smartly: Be intentional with layering; evenly distribute your refried beans and meat mixture to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

• Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix and match cheese varieties! Try pepper jack for a kick or a blend for a more complex flavor.

• Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest before serving it helps the layers set and makes for easier serving.

What to Serve with Mexican Ground Beef Casserole?

As the delightful aroma of your casserole fills the kitchen, consider these tasty accompaniments to round out your meal.

• Crispy Taco Salad: This fresh salad adds a crunchy texture with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing for a perfect balance.

• Guacamole: Creamy avocados mixed with lime juice and spices bring a refreshing twist that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.

• Spanish Rice: Flavorful rice with diced tomatoes and spices not only absorbs sauce but also adds lovely color to your plate.

• Sour Cream: A dollop brings creaminess and tartness, cutting through the richness of the cheese and beef layers beautifully.

• Pico de Gallo: Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavors, this salsa adds a burst of freshness and acidity that elevates every bite.

• Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, these muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory casserole, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

• Black Bean Soup: Rich and hearty, this soup enhances the bold flavors of your casserole while adding another layer of texture to your meal.

Pair any of these options with your Mexican Ground Beef Casserole for a cozy and fulfilling feast!

How to Store and Freeze Mexican Ground Beef Casserole

Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it s completely cool before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat your Mexican Ground Beef Casserole in the oven at 350 °F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent excessive browning.

Portioning: Consider dividing the casserole into smaller portions before freezing for convenient, quick meals.

Mexican Ground Beef Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use for my casserole?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) for the Mexican Ground Beef Casserole. This will give you a rich flavor without too much grease, making your casserole hearty yet not overly oily.

How should I store leftover Mexican Ground Beef Casserole?
For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing it to maintain its delicious quality. Reheat portions in the oven at 350 °F to retain the texture.

Can I freeze the Mexican Ground Beef Casserole?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil after it has cooled completely. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. For easier use, consider slicing it into individual portions before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven.

What can I do if my casserole turns out too watery?
No worries! If you find your casserole too watery, it s likely due to excess moisture in the beef mixture. If you encounter this, let it simmer on the stove for a few extra minutes until some of the liquid evaporates and the mixture thickens. Additionally, ensuring your drained canned ingredients are well-drained can help prevent excess moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free tortillas and checking the labels on canned beans and corn for potential allergens. If you have a pet, avoid sharing this dish, as some ingredients, like onions and garlic, can be harmful to dogs.

How ripe should my ingredients be?
For the best flavor in your Mexican Ground Beef Casserole, use fresh ingredients like firm yellow onions and ripe tomatoes. If you re looking for added zing, choosing tomatoes that are slightly on the riper side brings vibrant taste to the overall dish.