Introduction
This Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Layered with spiced beans, vegetables, melty cheese, and soft corn tortillas, it’s a satisfying vegetarian option that even meat-lovers will enjoy.
With bold flavors from fire-roasted tomatoes, cumin, and chili powder, and the option to customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream or jalapeños, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies like spinach and corn!
Ingredients
Olive oil extra virgin oil 1 tbsp
Yellow onion 1 large size chopped
Garlic paste or thinly sliced garlic 1 medium garlic clove
Powdered cumin 1 tsp
Red chilli powder 1 ½ tsp
Canned fire-roasted tomatoes 14 ounces; ¼ cup
tomato juice reserved
Tomato paste substitute ketchup ¼ cup
Black or pinto beans drained 15 ounce
Frozen corn 1 ½ cups
Spinach finely chopped 3 cups
Corn tortillas 8
Salt black pepper
Monterey jack cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (2 cups)
Optional ingredients: Cilantro salsa, sour cream, jalapenos
To start making Mexican tortillas, first, pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
As you need to bake before serving. Now apply oil on the baking pan (use cooking spray).
Now, put a pan on flame and add olive oil. Heat it on medium flame and then add chopped onion, garlic paste, grounded cumin, and red chilli powder.
Keep stirring until onions appear translucent, and the spices produce an aroma.
Stirring time may be three to five minutes. Now, add tomatoes, reserved tomato juice, ketchup (or tomato paste), drained beans, corn and finely chopped fresh spinach.
Keep stirring and cooking for another 2 minutes. Spinach appears soft and, the corn has thawed.
Add some salt (as per taste) and black pepper (as required).
Layer 2 corn tortillas in the bottom of the oiled baking pan, and add the next layer of bean mixture.
Spread the mixture properly. Now sprinkle cheese on the beans.
Repeat same with all the left ingredients until all are used.
Finishing sprinkles should be of cheese.
Now place the dish into the microwave oven and bake until the ingredients are cooked.
It may take twenty minutes.
Now take out the dish and let it cool. Cooling may take five minutes. After cooled down, cut into pieces.
Now sprinkle some toppings using the ingredients listed as optional.
Nutrition
Calories: 113kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein:
6g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Fiber: 2g | Calcium: 106mg
How to Store
Refrigerator: Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or place individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months.
To Reheat:
From fridge: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or until heated through.
If reheating the whole casserole, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes.
From freezer: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above. Or, bake from frozen at 350°F, covered, for 40–50 minutes.
Variations and Tips
Variations:
Add protein: Mix in cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or chorizo for a meaty version.
Vegan option: Use plant-based cheese or omit cheese entirely and add avocado or a drizzle of vegan crema on top after baking.
Tortilla swap: Use flour tortillas or crushed tortilla chips for a different texture.
Veggie boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Spice it up: Include diced jalapeños or a dash of chipotle powder for more heat.
Tips:
Prevent sogginess: Lightly toast tortillas before layering to help them hold up better.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Cheese matters: Use a blend of cheeses for the best melt and flavor—Monterey Jack and sharp Cheddar are a great combo.
Topping bar: Serve with a toppings bar of sour cream, salsa, avocado, and hot sauce for fun customization.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
Calories: 113 kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 3mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Calcium: 106mg
Sodium: (varies by brand of cheese, beans, and tomatoes used)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.