Cheesy Tortilla Meat Bake is a delicious, comforting dish that combines layers of seasoned ground meat, gooey melted cheese, and soft tortillas baked to perfection. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. The combination of spices and cheese creates an irresistible dish that everyone will love. Simple to prepare and packed with bold flavors, this cheesy bake is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped green chilies
- 6 small flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Filling – Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook the Meat – Add the ground beef or chicken to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Add Seasonings and Sauce – Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture – In a bowl, mix sour cream, cream cheese, and chopped green chilies until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Layers – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil. Place a tortilla at the bottom of the dish. Spread a layer of the meat mixture, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture, and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with tortillas on top.
- Add Final Cheese Layer – Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top to create a golden, gooey crust when baked.
- Bake to Perfection – Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish – Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve warm with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness with every bite!
This Cheesy Tortilla Meat Bake is an easy and flavorful dish that will impress everyone. Its combination of creamy cheese, savory meat, and soft tortillas makes it the ultimate comfort food. Try this recipe for a simple yet satisfying meal that brings everyone together!