If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that brings comfort food to the next level, the Cheesy Tortilla Meat Bake is your answer. Combining the satisfying textures of tortillas with savory seasoned meat, melty cheese, and just the right kick of spices, this bake offers the perfect dinner solution for busy weeknights or weekend family gatherings.
Inspired by Tex-Mex flavors, it layers ingredients like a lasagna but with a deliciously unique twist. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this dish will soon become a go-to favorite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or storing leftovers for the week, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser from the very first forkful.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup salsa (mild or hot, based on preference)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 6 medium flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Sliced jalapeños or diced avocado (optional toppings)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or casserole pan with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until soft and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Season the meat mixture with ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and salsa. Stir until the mixture is well combined and begins to simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the black beans and corn to the skillet, mixing thoroughly. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Begin assembling the bake: Lay two tortillas flat at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping if needed to cover the surface.
- Spoon a generous layer of the meat mixture over the tortillas and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Repeat this process two more times—tortilla layer, meat mixture, cheese—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final cheese topping.
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes to allow it to set for easier slicing.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and, if desired, sliced jalapeños or diced avocado for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on the side. Pair it with a fresh salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal.