Mexican Casserole

 Irresistible Mexican Casserole: A Flavor-Packed Family Favorite

Looking for a dinner that checks every box—flavorful, hearty, budget-friendly, and quick to whip up? This Mexican Casserole is exactly what your dinner table needs. Packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, gooey melted cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, and seasoned ground beef, it’s the kind of dish that leaves no leftovers. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or need a crowd-pleasing potluck recipe, this casserole is a guaranteed hit. One bite and you’ll understand why this recipe is a beloved classic in kitchens across America.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

Each ingredient plays a vital part in building the irresistible layers of flavor and texture that define this Mexican casserole.

1 pound lean ground beef – The savory base of the casserole. It’s rich, protein-packed, and carries the taco seasoning beautifully.

1 can Ranch Style beans – These flavorful beans bring a smoky, spiced depth that adds body and richness to every bite.

1 (10-12 ounce) bag tortilla chips, crushed – These serve as the casserole’s foundation and topping, offering a satisfying crunch and corn-forward flavor.

1 can Ro-Tel tomatoes – A mix of diced tomatoes and green chilies, Ro-Tel adds a perfect balance of zest, acidity, and a gentle kick of heat.

1 small onion, chopped – Infuses the meat with sweetness and depth. (Optional: sauté beforehand for extra flavor.)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – The ultimate melty glue that holds the casserole together and creates that irresistible cheesy top.

1 package taco seasoning – The heart of the Tex-Mex flavor, delivering cumin, chili powder, paprika, and other signature spices.

1 can cream of chicken soup – Adds unexpected creaminess and ties all the layers together with a velvety finish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple directions for a foolproof casserole every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is soft.

3. Stir in taco seasoning, Ro-Tel tomatoes (undrained), Ranch Style beans, and cream of chicken soup. Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.

4. In the baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips.

5. Pour the meat mixture evenly over the chips, spreading to cover.

6. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer.

7. Top with the remaining crushed chips and then the rest of the cheese.

8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

9. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, crunchy, and full of flavor. It's loved for its:

Quick prep time – Less than 15 minutes of hands-on time.

Pantry-friendly ingredients – You likely have most of these items on hand.

Customizable layers – Easy to add jalapeños, black olives, corn, or bell peppers.

Kid-approved taste – It’s cheesy, beefy, and not too spicy.

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Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole

Don’t overuse the chips. A light layer on the bottom keeps it from getting soggy. Save the crunch for the top.

Sauté the onion for a sweeter, richer flavor.

Use freshly shredded cheese for better meltability and creaminess.

Let it sit after baking—this helps the layers settle and makes slicing cleaner.

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Serving Suggestions

Make it a full Tex-Mex feast! Serve with:

A side of Spanish rice or Mexican-style cauliflower rice

A scoop of guacamole or sour cream on top

Crisp shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes for a fresh contrast

Hot sauce or salsa for those who love extra heat

And of course, a pitcher of icy margaritas or sweet tea to wash it down

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Conclusion: A Simple, Flavor-Packed Dinner You’ll Make Again and Again

This easy Mexican casserole is the kind of recipe you’ll pass down through generations. It’s simple to prepare, uses ingredients you already have, and delivers maximum comfort in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish is always a winner. Add it to your weekly rotation and watch it become your family’s new favorite.

Pin it, print it, share it—this is one recipe you’ll come back to

 over and over again.

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Want a printable version or meal-prep variation? Let me know, and I’ll whip that up too!