Name: This Crinkle Tortilla Casserole Is the Lazy Dinner I Keep Coming Back To
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 8 flour or corn tortillas, torn into pieces; 1 lb ground beef or 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 packet taco seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes or 1 cup enchilada sauce; 1 (15 oz) can black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.); Optional toppings: chopped scallions, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro

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Okay, so you know those nights when you just cannot be bothered to stand over the stove? This crinkle tortilla casserole is the answer. It’s warm, cheesy, a little crispy on top, and packed with flavor—like your favorite Tex-Mex comfort food all layered into one bubbly bake. And it’s way easier than making individual tacos or enchiladas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole checks all the boxes: it’s fast, feeds a crowd, and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in the pantry. The tortillas get soft and saucy in the middle and just a little bit crinkly and crisp around the edges—hence the name. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or beans, and it’s endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

You’ll need tortillas (flour or corn), a protein like ground beef or shredded chicken, canned tomatoes or enchilada sauce, beans, shredded cheese, and taco seasoning.
You’ll find the full list of ingredients down in the recipe card below!

Brown the Meat and Season It

Start by browning your ground beef or cooking your shredded chicken with a little oil. Add taco seasoning, salt, and pepper, and stir in any extras like canned tomatoes or a splash of enchilada sauce.

Layer the Tortillas and Filling

Grab a casserole dish and start layering: torn tortillas, a scoop of the meat mixture, beans if you’re using them, and plenty of cheese. Repeat until everything’s used up, finishing with a final layer of tortillas and cheese.

Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Pop it in a 375°F oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. The edges of the tortillas will crinkle up a bit—that’s how you know it’s going to be good.

Let It Rest Before Slicing

This part’s hard, I know—but let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before slicing into it. That way everything holds together a little better.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use day-old tortillas—they soak up the sauce better and give you that perfect crinkly texture
Add a layer of cream cheese or sour cream in the middle for extra creaminess
If it’s looking too dry before baking, drizzle on a bit more sauce over the top
Top with fresh cilantro, scallions, or jalapeños for a little color and bite

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap the meat for black beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version
Use green enchilada sauce or salsa verde for a tangier flavor
Mix in corn, bell peppers, or chopped spinach for added veggies
Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a spicier kick

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve slices of the casserole with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad. Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on top. If you’re serving this for a gathering, it goes great with chips, salsa, and a pitcher of margaritas or cold beer. And don’t forget guacamole—because it really does make everything better.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, tightly covered
To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through
It also freezes well—just wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge before baking
Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating to freshen it up

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake—just add 5–10 minutes to the bake time.

Will corn tortillas work?
Definitely! They give it a slightly chewier texture and a more traditional flavor.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely—just shred it up and season it before layering into the casserole.

How do I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or use spicy taco seasoning for a little more heat.

Conclusion

This crinkle tortilla casserole is the ultimate lazy comfort meal. It’s cheesy, satisfying, and so easy to throw together when you don’t want to think too hard about dinner. Whether it’s a Tuesday night or a weekend hangout with friends, this one’s always a hit.

This Crinkle Tortilla Casserole Is the Lazy Dinner I Keep Coming Back To

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This crinkle tortilla casserole is the ultimate lazy Tex-Mex comfort dish. Packed with seasoned meat, saucy beans, melted cheese, and tortillas that crisp at the edges, it’s a cozy weeknight dinner you’ll come back to again and again.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add ground beef or chicken and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes or enchilada sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, layer torn tortillas, meat mixture, beans, and cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbling and golden.
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with optional toppings.