If you love the cheesy, satisfying goodness of quesadillas, imagine combining them into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Mexican quesadilla casserole layers bold flavors, tender tortillas, and melty cheese to create a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love Mexican Quesadilla Casserole
Mexican quesadilla casserole is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. It’s comforting, filling, and packed with spices that deliver a fiesta of taste in every bite. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, customizable for your preferences, and ideal for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients for Mexican Quesadilla Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:
| Category | Ingredients |
| Base | 6 flour tortillas |
| Cooking spray | |
| Meat Mixture | 1 pound ground beef |
| ½ cup chopped onion | |
| Veggies & Beans | 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained |
| 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with lime and cilantro | |
| 1 (8.75 oz) can whole kernel sweet corn, drained | |
| 1 (4.5 oz) can chopped green chiles, drained | |
| Sauce & Spices | 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce |
| 2 tsp chili powder | |
| 1 tsp ground cumin | |
| 1 tsp minced garlic | |
| ½ tsp dried oregano | |
| ½ tsp red pepper flakes | |
| Toppings | 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mexican Quesadilla Casserole
1. Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Meat and Onion
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, stirring until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
3. Combine the Filling Ingredients
- Stir the tomato sauce, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and green chiles into the beef mixture.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread ½ cup of the beef mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Lay 3 tortillas over the mixture, overlapping if necessary.
- Spread another ½ cup of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.
6. Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or diced avocado.
What Makes Mexican Quesadilla Casserole Special?
- Bold Flavors: Spices like chili powder and cumin bring depth and warmth to every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples like beans, tomato sauce, and tortillas make this dish easy to prepare.
- Cheesy Goodness: With layers of melted Cheddar cheese, every bite is rich and satisfying.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat level, swap ingredients, or add toppings to make it your own.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | ~320 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
Creative Variations for Mexican Quesadilla Casserole
1. Vegetarian Version
Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
2. Chicken Quesadilla Casserole
Substitute ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast for a lighter option.
3. Spicy Fiesta Casserole
Add sliced jalapeños or use hot salsa for an extra kick.
4. Gluten-Free Casserole
Swap flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary needs.
5. Layered Taco Casserole
Incorporate layers of refried beans and sour cream for a taco-inspired flavor.
Tips for the Best Mexican Quesadilla Casserole
- Drain Excess Grease: Removing grease from the cooked beef keeps the casserole from becoming oily.
- Use Fresh Tortillas: Soft, fresh tortillas are easier to layer and bake evenly.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try mixing Cheddar with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking makes slicing easier.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Mexican Quesadilla Casserole
- With Toppings: Add sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for an extra layer of flavor.
- On the Side: Pair with a fresh salad, Mexican rice, or tortilla chips.
- For a Crowd: Double the recipe and bake in two dishes for large gatherings.
- As Leftovers: Enjoy reheated slices for a quick and tasty lunch the next day.
FAQs About Mexican Quesadilla Casserole
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I freeze Mexican quesadilla casserole?
Absolutely! Wrap the assembled (but unbaked) casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
4. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, corn tortillas work well and add a slightly different texture and flavor.
5. What other cheeses can I use?
Mexican cheese blends, Colby Jack, or even mozzarella can be used for variety.
6. How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, extra red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the filling.
Why Mexican Quesadilla Casserole is a Family Favorite
This casserole combines everything you love about Mexican cuisine into one dish. Its layered flavors, ease of preparation, and adaptability make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, celebrations, or meal prep. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Conclusion: Make Mexican Quesadilla Casserole Tonight
Ready to elevate your dinner game? Mexican quesadilla casserole is a quick, satisfying, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its cheesy layers and bold flavors, it’s a meal that brings everyone to the table. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a hearty dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home.
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Mexican Quesadilla Casserole: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Mexican quesadilla casserole is a flavorful, cheesy dish that brings the comfort of a casserole and the bold flavors of quesadillas together. Layered with tortillas, seasoned meat, and melty cheese, it’s the perfect meal for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 6 flour tortillas
- Non-stick cooking spray
For the Meat Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup chopped onion
For the Veggies & Beans:
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with lime and cilantro
- 1 (8.75 oz) can whole kernel sweet corn, drained
- 1 (4.5 oz) can chopped green chiles, drained
For the Sauce & Spices:
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. - Cook the Meat and Onion:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, stirring until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease. - Combine the Filling Ingredients:
Add the tomato sauce, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and green chiles to the beef mixture. Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors. - Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread ½ cup of the beef mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place 3 tortillas over the beef mixture, overlapping if needed.
- Spread another ½ cup of the beef mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through. - Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or diced avocado if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
- Freezer Option: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Customization: Add jalapeños for spice, swap beef for chicken or plant-based meat, or use corn tortillas for a different texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
