Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup salsa (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 8-10 soft flour tortillas (or corn tortillas if preferred)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1 ½ cups sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans (optional for extra texture)
- 1 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Jalapeño slices (optional, for added heat)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and salsa. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens and is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble the Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on the bottom.
- Place a layer of tortillas on top of the meat (you might need to overlap or cut some to fit).
- Spread a layer of refried beans (if using) over the tortillas.
- Add a layer of sour cream, then top with a generous handful of shredded cheese.
- Repeat this layering process (meat, tortillas, beans, sour cream, cheese) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, and jalapeño slices if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Slice into squares and serve with extra salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side!
Notes:
- Tortilla Options: Feel free to swap out flour tortillas for corn tortillas if you prefer a more traditional Mexican feel.
- Cheese Variations: You can use a mix of Mexican cheeses like cotija, Monterey Jack, or even a little queso fresco for different flavors.
- Extra Veggies: Add in some bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra texture and flavor.