Next, I like to take a moment to enjoy the sight of such a colorful mixture before proceeding. Once it’s all mixed, spread half of your creamy meat mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, it’s time to layer! Spread half of the sour cream over that layer, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining meat mixture, sour cream, and top it all with the rest of the cheese. It’s cheesy, comforting, and visually gratifying!
Now, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Set a timer for about 25 minutes, then remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking to get a delicious, bubbly, and golden cheese top. If the cheese isn’t browning to your liking, you could always broil it for a minute or two—just keep a watchful eye to avoid burning!
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This waiting time is the hardest part, but I promise the flavors meld together beautifully during this time. It will also prevent anyone’s mouths from burning when sampling the first bite!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways—using ground turkey, beef, and even plant-based meat. Each version has its own unique taste while still delivering that comforting vibe. Personally, I love the richness that beef adds, but the turkey makes it lighter which is a nice touch if I’m craving something less heavy.
One thing I learned along the way is to embrace the toppings. I always have a variety on hand—sliced jalapeños, guacamole, and fresh cilantro to top it off after baking. They add an extra punch of flavor and freshness, making each serving feel like a fiesta on my plate!
If you’re making this casserole for a crowd, you can easily double the recipe. It also freezes beautifully! I froze a batch once, and when I pulled it out a month later, it tasted just as delicious as the day I made it. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made on my first attempt was not draining the canned beans and tomatoes properly. The excess liquid made my casserole a bit soupy, which isn’t quite what we want in a casserole. Make sure to always drain those cans well! (See the next page below to continue…)