Next, I take my mixing bowl and layer the bottom of the baking dish with a little of the beef mixture. Then, I start layering by placing quartered tortillas over the mixture, followed by a generous sprinkle of cheese. I repeat this process until I’ve used up all my ingredients, finishing with a lovely layer of cheese on top. Oh, how I love that cheesy goodness! I pop the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, watching it closely as the cheese melts into a decadent, bubbly topping.
When the casserole is done, I can hardly wait to dig in! I let it sit for a few minutes to cool before serving. I typically garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream, which adds a refreshing contrast to the spices. The first scoop is always the best—layer upon layer of flavors that burst in my mouth.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve tested this recipe a few ways to find what works best. The first thing I discovered is that browning the meat with the onion and garlic really infuses everything with flavor. If you happen to have some leftover rotisserie chicken, that works wonderfully too!
Also, don’t skip on the cheese! I always recommend a blend that includes sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for deeper flavor, and I even add some pepper jack for a kick sometimes. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding jalapeños for an extra punch!
Lastly, if you’re on a health kick, I’ve swapped in whole wheat tortillas a few times, and they work just as well! It’s a great way to make this dish a bit healthier and still keep all the delicious flavors we love.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made when first trying my hand at casseroles was not allowing enough time for it to cool before serving. At first, I just couldn’t resist cutting into it too soon! This often led to a soupy mess instead of perfectly layered bites. Trust me, waiting a few minutes allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. (See the next page below to continue…)