Cheesy Tortilla Meat Bake is a delicious and hearty dish that combines layers of seasoned ground meat, melted cheese, and soft tortillas, all baked to perfection. This mouthwatering casserole-style recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where comfort food is a must. With a combination of rich flavors, gooey cheese, and a slightly crispy top layer, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Simple to prepare and packed with flavors, this dish is a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup corn (optional)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup sour cream (for serving)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a light coat of oil.
- Cook the Meat – Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef or chicken. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add Aromatics – Once the meat is cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
- Season the Mixture – Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
- Add Sauce and Extras – Pour in the tomato sauce, corn, and black beans (if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5 minutes until well combined. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Layers – Place one tortilla at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Spread a layer of the meat mixture over it, then sprinkle a portion of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat Layers – Continue layering tortillas, meat mixture, and cheese until all ingredients are used, ensuring that the top layer is generously covered with cheese.
- Bake to Perfection – Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
- Let It Rest – Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes over the top. Serve with a dollop of sour cream on the side for an extra creamy touch.
Enjoy this cheesy, meaty, and flavorful tortilla bake with your family and friends! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.