Quesadilla Casserole Recipe

A Cheesy, Hearty Mexican-Inspired Delight

Introduction

If you love the flavors of Mexican cuisine but want something easy and satisfying for a weeknight dinner, this Quesadilla Casserole is the perfect dish for you. Combining layers of soft flour tortillas, savory ground beef, black beans, tomatoes, corn, and plenty of melty Cheddar cheese, this casserole is both hearty and comforting. It’s an easy, oven-baked twist on traditional quesadillas, perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead.

This recipe is ideal for busy home cooks who need a simple yet delicious meal that requires minimal prep time. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, looking for a great potluck dish, or just craving something cheesy and flavorful, this casserole checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – With just 15 minutes of baking time, this meal is ready in under an hour.
  • Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, Tex-Mex flavors.
  • Customizable – Swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit dietary preferences.
  • Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and reheat for easy lunches and dinners.
  • Minimal Cleanup – One skillet and a baking dish are all you need!

Ingredients

  • Cooking spray
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with lime juice and cilantro (such as Rotel)
  • 1 (8.75-ounce) can whole kernel sweet corn, drained
  • 1 (4.5-ounce) can chopped green chiles, drained
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 6 flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Cooking spray
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Can opener

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is tender (about 5–7 minutes). Drain and discard any excess grease.

3. Add the Flavor

Stir in the tomato sauce, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and green chiles. Season with chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.

4. Layer the Casserole

Spread ½ cup of the beef mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place 3 flour tortillas on top, overlapping as needed. Spread another ½ cup of beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering one more time with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.

5. Bake & Serve

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Swap the Protein – Use ground turkey, chicken, or a meatless crumbles alternative for a different take.
  • Make It Spicier – Add sliced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for a heat boost.
  • Use Corn Tortillas – If you prefer, swap the flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a more traditional Mexican flavor.
  • Extra Cheesy – Try using a mix of Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack cheese.
  • Add More Veggies – Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can add more nutrients and texture.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This quesadilla casserole pairs perfectly with:

  • Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
  • Guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping
  • A simple side salad with avocado
  • Margaritas or agua fresca for a refreshing drink

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

If you like a firmer texture, toast the tortillas slightly in a dry skillet before layering them into the casserole.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Cheddar works great, but you can also use a blend of Mexican cheese, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Quesadilla Casserole is a must-try for anyone who loves easy, cheesy comfort food with bold Tex-Mex flavors. It’s simple to make, feeds a crowd, and is perfect for meal prep.

If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make meals like this one. Happy cooking!

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