### Delicious Cheesy Mexican Casserole Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that can be served all year round? Try this amazing cheesy Mexican casserole recipe! This comforting meal is packed with savory flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Follow these easy steps to create a delightful casserole that will have everyone asking for more.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup grated Mexican blend cheese
- 6 corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
#### Instructions:
1. **Preparation:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. **Cooking the Base Layer:**
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the pan. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until browned, about 10 minutes.
3. **Adding Flavor:**
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer and let cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
4. **Assembling the Casserole:**
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled meat mixture with 1 cup of cheddar cheese, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, and 1 cup of sour cream. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Spread about 1/2 inch layer of cooked rice in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
5. **Layering:**
- Pour half of the meat mixture over the rice layer, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange tortilla strips over the meat.
- Repeat with another layer of rice and the remaining meat mixture.
6. **Finishing Touches:**
- Sprinkle a generous amount of the Mexican blend cheese over the top.
- Use remaining cheese to create a decorative pattern or a border around the edges.
7. **Baking:**
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. **Serving:**
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
#### Tips & Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground meat with refried beans or black beans.
- Add some heat by including chopped jalapeños in the meat mixture.
- Serve with pico de gallo for an extra burst of flavor and color on your plate.
This cheesy Mexican casserole is not only easy to prepare but also customizable. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a memorable family gathering, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy your meal!