If you’re looking for a fiesta-worthy dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, this Cinco de Mayo Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It layers seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, sweet corn, and melty cheese between soft flour tortillas, all baked to bubbly perfection. This casserole is not only an absolute crowd-pleaser but also wonderfully simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Every bite brings a warm, satisfying blend of textures and classic Mexican-inspired flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this Cinco de Mayo Casserole Recipe’s deliciousness lies in its straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component works together to create layers of taste, color, and texture that make this dish shine.
- Ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base that carries the taco seasoning beautifully.
- Taco seasoning: Brings a lively mix of spices that infuse the beef with classic Mexican flavor.
- Refried beans: Offer a creamy and rich texture that balances the meat.
- Corn kernels: Add a touch of natural sweetness and a pleasant crunch.
- Flour tortillas: Soft layers that hold everything together and soak up the delicious juices.
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Melts to gooey perfection, adding richness and color.
- Salsa: For an extra kick and freshness on top when serving.
- Sour cream: A cool, tangy contrast that complements the spiced layers perfectly.
How to Make Cinco de Mayo Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to bake the casserole to bubbly, cheesy perfection right when you’re done assembling it. This step ensures even cooking throughout.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Then, stir in the taco seasoning to coat the meat evenly, filling your kitchen with that fabulous, inviting aroma of spices.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Grab a baking dish and create your delicious layers starting with a base of flour tortillas. Then add a layer of the seasoned ground beef, followed by refried beans, corn kernels, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until you’ve used up your ingredients, finishing with a thick blanket of cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 4: Bake
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye out for that bubbly, golden cheese on top — that’s your cue that the casserole is ready to come out and wow everyone at the table.
Step 5: Serve
Once baked, let your Cinco de Mayo Casserole Recipe rest for a few minutes. Then garnish with dollops of fresh salsa and tangy sour cream to add brightness and creaminess that perfectly complement the warm layers beneath.
How to Serve Cinco de Mayo Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh salsa and sour cream elevate the dish with pops of color and bold flavors. You can also sprinkle chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or diced avocados for an extra special touch that brings freshness and a little zing.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a standalone star but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, Mexican rice, or a side of black beans. These accompaniments add contrast in texture and keep your meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a festive dinner party vibe or layering the casserole in a clear glass dish to show off the colorful strata. You could also top it with a handful of crunchy tortilla chips after baking for some fun texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Cinco de Mayo Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This lets the flavors meld even more, making the next meal just as delicious.
Freezing
If you want to set yourself up for an easy dinner later, wrap the casserole tightly with foil and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly again. You can also microwave individual servings, though the oven will keep that melty cheese texture better.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. The layers still come together beautifully and pack plenty of flavor.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
You can, but keep in mind corn tortillas are less flexible and may break when layering. To help, warm them slightly before assembling to make them more pliable.
Is this casserole spicy?
The spice level depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you use. You can choose mild, medium, or hot seasonings to suit your taste, or even add fresh jalapeños for more heat.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the fridge. Just pop it into the oven when you’re ready to cook, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
What cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend work wonderfully because they melt well and add a nice sharpness that complements the savory layers. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or even queso fresco for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Cinco de Mayo Casserole Recipe is a true celebration in every bite — bursting with rich flavors, comforting layers, and easy preparation. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just craving some delightful Tex-Mex comfort food, give this recipe a try. You’ll find it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen, sure to brighten any meal with its warm, cheesy goodness.
Print
Cinco de Mayo Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with this delicious and easy-to-make casserole. Layers of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, corn, and melted cheese between soft flour tortillas create a festive and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
Beans and Vegetables
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
Other Ingredients
- 6–8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup salsa (for garnishing)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning with a splash of water and simmer for 2–3 minutes until well combined.
- Assemble the Layers: In a medium baking dish, start by placing a layer of flour tortillas. Spread a layer of seasoned beef on top, followed by refried beans, corn kernels, and a generous sprinkling of shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly. Garnish with salsa and serve with a dollop of sour cream on each plate for added flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen corn kernels if canned corn is not available.
- You can substitute refried beans with black beans or pinto beans for variation.
- For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños in the layers or sprinkle on top before baking.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
