Spicy Mexican Fiesta Casserole

Gather Your Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter twist)
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced for that aromatic kick
1 (1 oz) packet of taco seasoning, your go-to for bold flavor
1 (15 oz) can black beans, thoroughly rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can sweet corn kernels, drained to keep things crisp
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), juice and all for extra zing
1 cup of your favorite salsa, mild or spicy to suit your mood
8 small tortillas (corn for authenticity or flour for softness), cut into thin strips
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, because melty cheese is the star
Optional garnishes to make it pop: a dollop of sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños for heat, diced avocado for creaminess, or sliced green onions for a fresh crunch

Let’s Get Cooking:

Set the Stage: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), the perfect temperature for bubbly, cheesy goodness. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spritz of cooking spray or a light swipe of oil to prevent sticking.
Sizzle the Base: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking them together until the beef is fully browned and the onions turn soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep things light. Stir in the minced garlic and sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture, letting it cook for another minute or two. The kitchen will start smelling like a taco truck—embrace it!
Build the Flavor: Pour in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with their green chilies, and that vibrant cup of salsa. Give everything a good stir, letting the ingredients mingle and warm through for 3-4 minutes. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld into a hearty, spicy filling that’s the heart of your casserole.
Layer Like a Pro:

Start by spreading a thin layer of the beef and veggie mixture across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This creates a flavorful foundation.
Lay half of the tortilla strips over the mixture, arranging them evenly like a cozy blanket.
Sprinkle half of the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the tortillas, letting it nestle into the warm filling below.
Repeat the process: another layer of the beef mixture, the remaining tortilla strips, and a final generous topping of cheese to crown your creation.

Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish snugly with aluminum foil to trap the heat and bake for 20 minutes. Then, peel back the foil and let it bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is gloriously melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown at the edges. Your kitchen will smell like a fiesta waiting to happen.
Serve with Flair: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to settle—this makes it easier to slice and serve. Now’s the time to get creative with toppings! Add a generous spoonful of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a few fiery jalapeño slices, creamy avocado chunks, or a handful of chopped green onions. Serve it up with a side of tortilla chips or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Dish Shines:
This casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending the bold flavors of a taco night with the comforting, layered goodness of a baked dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you want to feed a hungry crew without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—swap in ground chicken, add extra veggies like bell peppers, or crank up the heat with a spicier salsa. Make it your own!