Hearty Mexican Tortilla Casserole

Mexican Tortilla Casserole sounds delicious! Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can refried beans (spread easier if you warm them in the microwave)
• 1 cup prepared rice (Minute Rice works well)
• 1 can Mexican blend corn (DRAINED) – you’ll only use about 1/2 can
• 4-5 large flour tortillas
• 8 oz of thick, chunky salsa (your choice, mild or hot)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Dish:
   • Spray a springform, round cake pan, or casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the Beef:
   • Add the taco seasoning mix to the cooked ground beef according to the package directions. Cook it according to the seasoning packet.
4. Layer the Casserole:
   • Start by laying one tortilla in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Spread 1/3 of the refried beans on top of the tortilla.
   • Add 1/3 of the seasoned ground beef.
   • Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top.
5. Repeat the Layers:
   • Repeat the layering process.
   • For the second layer, use another tortilla, 1/2 of the prepared rice, 1/2 of the salsa, 1/2 of the drained corn, and more cheese.
   • For the third layer, use another tortilla, 1/3 of the refried beans, 1/3 of the seasoned beef, and more cheese.
6. Finish the Layers:
   • For the fourth and final layer, use the last tortilla.
   • Spread the remaining refried beans, seasoned beef, corn, rice, salsa, and cheese.
7. Bake:
   • Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes.
   • Uncover the dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until it’s heated through and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Rest and Serve:
   • Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before cutting into it. This helps it set.
9. Serve with Toppings:
   • After baking, you can top your Mexican Tortilla Casserole with sour cream, diced onion, and shredded lettuce, if desired.