Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and easy to make? Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole is a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With layers of seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and crispy tortilla chips, this casserole combines all the best flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine in one delicious dish. It’s simple to prepare and always a hit with both kids and adults alike!

I stumbled upon this recipe when I needed a quick and hearty meal for a last-minute dinner party. I had some tortillas left in the pantry, along with ground beef and cheese, and decided to throw them together to create something special. The result was nothing short of amazing—a satisfying casserole that had everyone going back for seconds. Since then, Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole has become one of my go-to meals when I need something hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover tortillas!

The first time I served this casserole was at a potluck dinner with friends. I wasn’t sure how it would compare to other dishes, but I was hopeful. As soon as I pulled it out of the oven, the delicious aroma of melted cheese and seasoned beef filled the room. When I placed the casserole on the table, everyone eagerly gathered around. “What’s in this?” one friend asked. “Just a simple tortilla casserole,” I replied. When they took their first bite, the room fell silent for a moment, then the compliments started rolling in. “This is incredible! You have to share the recipe!” That night, the Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole was the star of the show, and I’ve been making it regularly ever since.

Why This Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole?

Selling Points:

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, this casserole is a perfect solution for busy nights.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla chips creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or ingredients to make this casserole your own—think beans, corn, or jalapeños for extra flavor!
• Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers, and it can easily be reheated for a quick meal the next day.

What You Need for Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 bag (8 oz) tortilla chips, crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for serving)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or cilantro (optional for garnish)

How to Make Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir in the salsa and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
3. Prepare the Casserole: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of crumbled tortilla chips across the bottom. Top with a layer of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with a generous amount of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
4. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions or cilantro, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Crinkle Tortilla Casserole

• Don’t Overcrowd the Layers: For the best texture, don’t overstuff the layers with too many tortilla chips or too much beef. The balance between the ingredients makes the casserole crispy and gooey.
• Add Extra Veggies: You can easily sneak in some extra vegetables, like bell peppers, corn, or black beans, for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use Sturdy Tortilla Chips: For the best texture, use sturdy tortilla chips that won’t crumble too much during baking. You can also try using whole wheat chips for a healthier option.

Substitutions and Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this casserole.
• Vegetarian Version: Use black beans or refried beans in place of the meat to make this casserole vegetarian-friendly.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some extra heat.
• Cheese Variations: Mix up the cheese blend by using pepper jack cheese or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

• Use Baked Tortilla Chips: To reduce fat, opt for baked tortilla chips instead of regular fried chips.
• Lean Protein: Use lean ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef to cut down on fat and calories.
• Low-Fat Sour Cream: Use low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier topping.

Closing for Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole

Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole is a delicious, hearty dish that brings together the flavors of Tex-Mex in a simple, no-fuss recipe. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, satisfying picky eaters, and making sure everyone leaves the table full. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy night at home, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite. Don’t forget to share how it turns out, and explore more of our quick and easy recipes for more meal inspiration. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake it from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of tortilla chips? Yes, you can use cut-up corn tortillas in place of the chips. Just layer them in the casserole the same way as the chips.

Can I add beans to this casserole? Absolutely! You can add black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans to the beef mixture for extra texture and flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Pepper jack cheese or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar will add a nice twist.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Yes, just replace the meat with beans or other vegetables like corn or bell peppers to make it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I add more spice to the casserole? Yes, feel free to add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili powder for extra spice.

Can I use homemade taco seasoning instead of a packet?

Absolutely! Homemade taco seasoning will work great. Just use a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
What should I serve with this casserole?

You can serve it with a side of guacamole, a fresh green salad, or some Mexican rice for a complete meal.

This Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole is a guaranteed winner every time. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy for dinner or a dish to impress at your next gathering, it’s the perfect choice!

Easy Crinkle Tortilla Casserole

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)

• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

• 1 cup salsa

• 1 bag (8 oz) tortilla chips, crumbled

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for serving)

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or cilantro (optional for garnish)

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir in the salsa and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
• Prepare the Casserole: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of crumbled tortilla chips across the bottom. Top with a layer of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with a generous amount of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
• Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions or cilantro, if desired.