Classic Mexican Casserole

📜 Collection: General Archive | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Entrees A classic and simple layered enchilada-style casserole featuring seasoned ground beef rolled in lightly fried tortillas, topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
20 mins30 minsNone6-8 servings

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Smaller frying pan
  • Small saucepan
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Paper towels

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
1 PoundGround Beefraw
1 TeaspoonChili Powdernone
1 TeaspoonSaltnone
To tasteBlack Peppernone
1Chopped Onionchopped
As neededSalad Oilfor frying
12Tortillascorn
1 Can (15 oz)Tomato Saucenone
1 Can (15 oz)Waterusing the same can
1-2 cupsGrated Cheesegrated

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Filling and Prepare Tortillas

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the 1 pound ground beef with the 1 chopped onion, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper until the meat is cooked through and onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
  3. In a separate, smaller pan, heat about 1/4 inch of salad oil over medium-high heat. One at a time, dip each 12 corn tortillas into the hot oil for about 30-60 seconds, just until softened and pliable. Drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Assemble and Bake

  1. Fill each softened tortilla with a spoonful of the meat mixture and roll it up. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  2. In a small saucepan, heat the 1 can tomato sauce to boiling. Add 1 can water and stir to combine. Pour this sauce mixture evenly over the rolled tortillas in the dish.
  3. Top generously with 1-2 cups grated cheese.
  4. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card