This Mexican casserole with ground beef is a cheesy, comforting dish that’s quick to make and crowd-pleasing. Made with seasoned ground beef, creamy enchilada sauce, corn, beans, and tortilla chips, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or group gatherings.
2cupstortilla chips or Nacho-flavored Doritosdivided
½cupbell pepperschopped, any color, divided
2cupscorncanned, drained, divided
1cuppinto beansrinsed and drained, optional, divided
3cupsMexican blend or cheddar cheeseshredded, divided
½cupfresh cilantrochopped, divided
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
Cooking spray
Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is browned and fully cooked.
1 pound ground beef, ½ cup onion
Drain excess grease, then stir in 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Set aside.
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, stir the softened cream cheese until smooth.
8 ounces cream cheese
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, green enchilada sauce, and salsa. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
10 ounces green enchilada sauce, 1 cup salsa
Start Layering
Spread half of the chips on the bottom of the baking dish.
2 cups tortilla chips or Nacho-flavored Doritos
Spoon half of the creamy enchilada sauce over the chips.
Layer with half of the cooked beef, then half of the chopped peppers, corn, pinto beans (if using), and shredded cheese.
½ cup bell peppers, 2 cups corn, 1 cup pinto beans, 3 cups Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, creamy sauce, beef, vegetables, and cheese.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish (optional)
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or add your favorite toppings like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or diced tomatoes before serving.
½ cup fresh cilantro
Notes
Recipe Tips
Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier and perfect mixing.
Chop all vegetables and measure your ingredients before you begin layering.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
Use leftover taco meat to cut down on prep time.
Add sliced olives or green onions for extra flavor.
Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking before serving for cleaner slices.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Freezing: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 300°F until heated through.Make-Ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.