This hearty and satisfying Black Bean Tortilla Casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine into a comforting baked dish. Layered with soft tortillas, spiced black beans, sweet corn, tangy tomatoes, and a generous amount of melted cheese, this casserole is both filling and flavorful. The dish is easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy nights or when you want a meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s also customizable, so feel free to add in some extra veggies, ground meat, or adjust the spices to suit your taste. Serve it with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 8 small corn tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Beans and Vegetables: Stir in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Add salsa and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the bean mixture at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of tortilla quarters over the mixture. Top with a portion of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve warm with sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce on the side.
Enjoy this delicious, comforting Black Bean Tortilla Casserole with your favorite toppings!
