A bold, cheesy, and flavorful fiesta in every bite! This easy, layered casserole combines seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, salsa, and gooey melted cheese—perfect for Taco Tuesday, potlucks, or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ One-dish wonder – Minimal cleanup!
✅ Customizable heat – Mild or spicy, it’s up to you.
✅ Feeds a crowd – Great for parties or meal prep.
✅ Kid-friendly – Picky eaters? Let them build their own toppings!

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

Base Layer:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp paprika)
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 cup frozen corn (or canned)
• 1 (16 oz) jar salsa (mild, medium, or hot)

Cheesy Middle Layer:

• 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 (8 oz) can refried beans (optional, for extra creaminess)

Top Layer:

• 6-8 corn tortillas (or flour tortillas)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (for topping)
• Optional toppings after baking:
  • Diced avocado
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Meat

• Brown ground beef in a skillet, drain excess fat.
• Stir in taco seasoning + ¼ cup water, simmer 2 mins.

2. Layer the Casserole

1️⃣ Bottom layer: Spread refried beans (if using) in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Meat layer: Add cooked beef, black beans, corn, and salsa. Mix lightly.
3️⃣ Cheese layer: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups shredded cheese.
4️⃣ Tortilla layer: Cover with tortillas (tear to fit).
5️⃣ Final cheese layer: Top with remaining 1 ½ cups cheese.

3. Bake to Bubbly Perfection

• Cover with foil, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 mins.
• Uncover, bake 5-10 more mins until cheese is golden.

4. Top & Serve!

• Let cool 5 mins, then add fresh toppings.
• Serve with tortilla chips or rice.

Pro Tips

🌶️ Spice it up – Use hot salsa or add diced green chiles.
🥬 Veggie-loaded – Stir in bell peppers or zucchini.
🥑 Make it creamy – Mix 1/2 cup sour cream into the meat layer.
🍽 Meal prep – Assemble ahead, refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Dietary Swaps

🌱 Vegetarian? Use plant-based meat or extra beans.
🧀 Dairy-free? Swap cheese for vegan shreds.
🌮 Low-carb? Skip tortillas, use cauliflower rice as a base.