This Easy Mexican Tortilla Bake is a fun and tasty dish! Layered tortillas, cheese, beans, and veggies come together for a colorful feast that’s sure to please everyone.
Making this bake feels like a party, and I love how quick it is to throw together. Plus, leftovers taste just as good the next day, if there are any left! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Minced Beef or Turkey: You can use lean minced beef for a classic taste, but I often go for turkey for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a meat-free version, try using lentils or a mix of beans instead.
Peppers: The red and yellow peppers add sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, green peppers can work, but keep in mind they will have a more bitter flavor. You can also use a mix of frozen peppers for convenience!
Cheese: Mature cheddar is a winner for its bold flavor. If you’re aiming for something creamier, feel free to substitute Monterey Jack or even a blend of cheeses. For dairy-free, look for a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas roll up nicely, but you can swap in corn tortillas if you prefer. Alternatively, if you’re gluten-free, there are excellent gluten-free tortilla options available.
How Do I Ensure the Layers Stay Perfect?
Layering is key for a good tortilla bake. Start with a thin layer of the meat mixture in the bottom of your dish. This prevents the tortillas from sticking too much. Use overlapping tortillas to cover the meat, and don’t be shy about adding cheese between layers for extra flavor.
- Make sure each layer is evenly spread out for balanced taste.
- Finish with a good layer of cheese on top to achieve a nice golden crust!
- Let the bake rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
Easy Mexican Tortilla Bake by Mary Berry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow pepper, chopped
- 400g (14 oz) lean minced beef or turkey
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp mild chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 x 400g can chopped tomatoes
- 2 x 400g cans red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 200g (7 oz) grated mature cheddar cheese
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Mexican Tortilla Bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F) fan/gas mark 5. This ensures it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your tortilla dish!
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This will be the flavor base for your bake!
3. Add the Peppers:
Next, stir in the chopped red and yellow peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This adds great color and sweetness to the dish!
4. Brown the Meat:
Add the minced beef or turkey to the pan. Cook until browned all over, using a spoon to break it up as it cooks. This step is important for getting all the lovely flavors mixing together.
5. Season with Spices:
Now, sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute to allow those spices to release their wonderful aroma.
6. Add Tomatoes and Beans:
Pour in the chopped tomatoes and add the drained kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this simmer gently for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens just a bit. Stir occasionally!
7. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly oil a large, shallow ovenproof dish. Spread a thin layer of the meat and bean mixture at the bottom. Next, cover this with two tortillas, overlapping slightly.
8. Layer it Up:
Spoon over some more of the meat mixture and sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top. Everyone loves a cheesy crust!
9. Bake:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s ready, take the bake out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a pop of color and flavor before serving. Enjoy your easy Mexican Tortilla Bake!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Tortilla Bake
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can swap the lean minced beef or turkey for ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Just ensure that whatever meat you choose is cooked through!
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! If you’re missing cumin, chili powder, or paprika, you can adjust the flavor with taco seasoning or even just salt and pepper. Get creative and use what you have on hand!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and substitute with an additional can of beans or add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a sprinkle of cheese before reheating for extra creaminess!
