Savory Black Bean and Beef Tortilla Casserole
This Savory Black Bean and Beef Tortilla Casserole is a wholesome and satisfying dish that brings together the rich flavors of lean ground beef, hearty black beans, and zesty tomatoes, all layered with delicious flour tortillas. Inspired by a quick everyday meal idea, this recipe is perfect for any night of the week when you're short on time but still want to serve up something nutritious. Using full-fat cheddar for a punch of flavor while keeping the dish low in fat, this casserole is not only easy to prepare with common pantry ingredients, but it will also impress family and friends with its depth of flavor and comforting texture. Perfectly complemented by a dollop of sour cream, this dish is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing taste.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
extra lean ground beef
1 lb (cooked and drained)
black beans
1 (15 ounce) can (rinsed and drained)
chopped tomatoes
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can (including juices)
taco seasoning mix
1 (1 1/4 ounce) envelope (mixed in)
water
2/3 cup (for cooking)
reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
3/4 cup (3 oz.) (shredded)
flour tortillas
3 (8 inch) (cut in half and then crosswise into 1/2 inch strips)
sour cream
to taste (for serving (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large 12-inch skillet, cook the extra lean ground beef over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, or until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
3
Stir in the rinsed black beans, the chopped tomatoes, taco seasoning mix, and water. Cook for an additional 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.
4
Mix in 1/2 cup of the grated sharp cheddar cheese into the beef mixture, allowing it to melt slightly.
5
In an 8-inch square glass baking dish, spread about 2 cups of the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
6
Layer half of the tortilla strips over the beef mixture.
7
Cover with half of the remaining beef mixture, spreading it evenly.
8
Add the remaining tortilla strips on top, and finish with the last of the beef mixture.
9
Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
10
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
11
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream on top, if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Black Bean and Beef Tortilla Casserole?
It is a wholesome and satisfying dish featuring lean ground beef, heart black beans, and zesty tomatoes layered with flour tortillas.
What type of meat is used in this casserole?
The recipe calls for one pound of extra lean ground beef, cooked and drained.
How do I prepare the black beans?
You should use one 15-ounce can of black beans, which should be rinsed and drained before use.
Should I drain the canned tomatoes?
No, you should include the juices from the 14.5-ounce can of chopped tomatoes.
What size baking dish is needed?
An 8-inch square glass baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long does it take to brown the beef?
In a 12-inch skillet, the ground beef should be cooked for 8-10 minutes over medium heat until browned.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
The recipe suggests using shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese for a punch of flavor while keeping it low in fat.
How much water is added to the beef mixture?
You need to add 2/3 cup of water when mixing in the beans and tomatoes.
How many tortillas are required?
You will need three 8-inch flour tortillas.
How should the tortillas be prepared?
The flour tortillas should be cut in half and then crosswise into 1/2 inch strips.
How do I layer the casserole?
Start with 2 cups of the beef mixture, layer half the tortilla strips, add half the remaining beef, the rest of the tortillas, and the final beef mixture.
How much cheese is mixed directly into the beef?
Mix 1/2 cup of the grated sharp cheddar cheese into the beef mixture before layering.
How long does the casserole bake?
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 30 minutes until bubbly.
When do I add the final layer of cheese?
After the initial 30 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a nutritious meal using extra lean beef and heart-healthy beans.
Can I serve this with anything else?
It is perfectly complemented by a dollop of sour cream on top.
What are the main flavors of this dish?
The dish features rich beef, zesty tomatoes, and savory taco seasoning.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 8 ingredients, including the optional sour cream.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include casserole, beef, black beans, tortilla, healthy, easy dinner, and comfort food.
Does the recipe use taco seasoning?
Yes, one 1.25-ounce envelope of taco seasoning mix is used.
Can I use a larger skillet for the meat?
The instructions recommend a large 12-inch skillet.
How long should I let it cool?
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set.
Is this a good meal for a busy weeknight?
Yes, it is designed as a quick everyday meal idea that is easy to prepare.
Can I use full-fat cheese instead?
While the ingredient list specifies reduced-fat, the description notes full-fat cheddar can be used for more flavor.
How many servings does this make?
The serving size is not specified, but an 8-inch square dish typically serves 4 to 6 people.
What is the preparation for the beef?
The beef should be cooked and then thoroughly drained of any excess fat.
Are the tortillas corn or flour?
This specific recipe uses flour tortillas.
Is the casserole covered while baking?
No, the instructions state to bake the casserole uncovered.
What if I don't have an 8-inch square dish?
You can use a similar sized oven-safe dish, though cooking times may vary slightly.