mexican casserole recipe
- The Best mexican casserole recipe
- Cheesy Chicken & Bean Casserole (Tacos Casserole)
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Cheesy Chicken & Bean Casserole (Tacos Casserole) Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken & Bean Casserole (Tacos Casserole)
The Best mexican casserole recipe
What really makes this recipe work for me is how easy it is to customize. You can swap out the beans for extra cheese if you’re craving something richer, or add more veggies if you want to make it lighter. My kids love it when I sneak in some black beans or corn because it’s a way to get them to eat things they might not otherwise pick up. And let’s be honest, when you’re hosting a dinner party or just having company over, there’s nothing better than a big, warm casserole that everyone can dig into. Plus, it’s got all the good stuff—protein from the beans and chicken, fiber from the veggies, and a little something sweet from the tomatoes and spices. It’s not just filling; it’s actually good for you in a way that processed meals just can’t compete. My kids and I eat it almost every week, and I don’t think I’ve ever had a family meal that’s been as satisfying or as simple.
Cheesy Chicken & Bean Casserole (Tacos Casserole)
A hearty, one-pan Mexican-inspired casserole packed with shredded chicken, black beans, cheese, and seasoned tortillas. Perfect for a comforting family meal!
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast/thighs
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (optional)
- 12 small flour tortillas (6-inch)
- 1 cup salsa
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup chopped green onions
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, cook chicken over medium heat until fully done (6-7 mins). Remove chicken, shred with forks, and set aside. -
2
In the same skillet, sauté diced onions, garlic, and spices (cumin, chili powder) for 2 mins. Add beans, diced tomatoes, and shredded chicken. Simmer 5 mins. -
3
In a bowl, mix tortillas with salsa, sour cream, cilantro, and remaining spices. Spread half the tortilla mixture evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. -
4
Layer the chicken-bean mixture over tortillas. Sprinkle half the cheeses and green onions on top. -
5
Repeat tortilla layer, then add remaining cheese and green onions. Bake covered with foil for 20 mins, then uncovered for 10-15 mins until bubbly and golden.
🔧Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or pot
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Mixing spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the chicken-bean mixture.
- Substitute whole wheat tortillas for a lighter option.
- Leftovers reheat well—store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Variations
- Add cooked sausage or ground beef for a heartier twist.
- Swap black beans for refried beans for a classic texture.
Watch Video Of How Cheesy Chicken & Bean Casserole (Tacos Casserole) Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken & Bean Casserole (Tacos Casserole)
What is the traditional Mexican casserole dish that is typically made with ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese?
Hervado (or Hervido de Carne) is a classic Mexican casserole, often called “Mexican Beef Stew.” It’s a hearty dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano. It’s usually served with rice, beans, and warm tortillas.
How do I make the best Hervado de Carne (Mexican Beef Stew) at home?
To make the best Hervado de Carne, start by browning ground beef in a pot, then sauté onions, garlic, and diced tomatoes. Add broth, beans (like pinto or black), and seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and bay leaves. Simmer for 30-45 minutes until flavors meld. Stir in shredded cheese at the end for a creamy finish. Serve with warm tortillas and rice.
Can I use chicken instead of beef for this recipe?
Yes! You can make a Hervado de Pollo (Mexican Chicken Stew) by substituting ground chicken for beef. The technique remains the same—brown the meat, sauté aromatics, and simmer with broth, beans, and spices. The dish will still be flavorful and comforting.
What are the best sides to serve with Mexican Beef Stew (Hervado)?
The classic sides for Hervado are warm tortillas, rice (white or brown), refried beans, and sometimes a simple salad with lime and cilantro. For extra richness, a side of Mexican street corn (esquites) or a creamy avocado dip works well too.
How can I make this dish healthier without sacrificing flavor?
To make it healthier, use lean ground beef (or turkey/chicken) and reduce the amount of oil used. Add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to bulk it up. Use low-sodium broth and skip added salt if possible. For extra protein, add black beans or lentils instead of just rice.
