If you’re craving a fiesta on your dinner table, look no further than this irresistibly cheesy Cinco de Mayo Casserole. Bursting with zesty taco-seasoned meat, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and tangy tomatoes, all layered with melty cheese and a pop of fresh cilantro, this casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—perfect for celebrations or any day you want to bring a bit of Mexican-inspired magic to your meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things beautifully simple but never boring—each ingredient plays a unique role in making your Cinco de Mayo Casserole vibrant, filling, and flat-out delicious. Here’s what you’ll need (plus a few tips to make every bite pop):
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey: Provides a savory, high-protein foundation; choose turkey for a lighter twist.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Packs in bold, familiar Tex-Mex flavors with just the twist of a cap.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps dissolve the seasoning, ensuring every bite is perfectly flavored.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Lends a creamy texture and a boost of fiber and color.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned): Adds lovely sweetness and pops of golden color—no need to thaw if using frozen.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Gives the casserole a juicy tang and just a hint of heat.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Extra hearty and perfect for soaking up all the saucy goodness—white or brown rice works great.
- 1 cup salsa: Adds layers of flavor; choose mild or spicy depending on your heat preference.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts into irresistible gooeyness—don’t hold back here!
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional): Brings a briny, sophisticated bite if you want to fancy things up.
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish: A vibrant finish that makes the flavors sing and the whole dish look festival-ready.
How to Make Cinco de Mayo Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for golden, bubbly results. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this ensures easy serving and keeps every grain of rice from sticking. It’s a quick step but makes a world of difference when it’s time to dish out generous scoops of Cinco de Mayo Casserole.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef or turkey until fully browned, about 5 to 6 minutes. This is where all the savory flavor begins—be sure to break the meat into small, even pieces so every forkful of the casserole is hearty and satisfying. Drain off any excess fat before moving on.
Step 3: Season the Flavor Base
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning packet and pour in 1/2 cup water. Stir well, letting the meat simmer for about 2 minutes so all those spices infuse deeply. The delicious aroma will set the tone for pure comfort food.
Step 4: Build the Filling
Add in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies (with their juices!), cooked rice, and salsa. Mix thoroughly to combine all those colors and textures—this is where the Cinco de Mayo Casserole starts to come to life. Every ingredient adds complexity, making each bite a flavor jackpot.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Next, shower the whole surface with a generous layer of shredded cheese. Scatter on the black olives, if you love that briny punch. This is your moment to make it as cheesy or as festive as you’d like.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. The smell is your sign that dinner’s just moments away—the flavors will mingle beautifully, and the top will turn deliciously gooey.
Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy
Once your Cinco de Mayo Casserole emerges piping hot, shower it with a good handful of chopped fresh cilantro. This green confetti brings freshness and just the right hint of brightness to every serving. Now, get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Cinco de Mayo Casserole
Garnishes
Transform your casserole into a true fiesta by topping it with a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro. For extra fun, add dollops of tangy sour cream, a scoop of guacamole, or a few crunchy tortilla chips on the side—these not only add creaminess and crunch but also make your plate Instagram-worthy!
Side Dishes
Pairing your Cinco de Mayo Casserole with vibrant sides turns your meal into a full-fledged celebration. Try a fresh green salad with a citrusy dressing, charred street corn (elote), or a bowl of spicy Mexican slaw. For something heartier, fluffy cornbread or warm flour tortillas are always a hit.
Creative Ways to Present
Make every serving special by dishing the casserole into colorful individual bowls, or serve it family-style straight from the bubbly baking dish. For parties, cut the casserole into squares and offer them as fun finger food, or nestle scoops inside crunchy taco shells for the ultimate Tex-Mex mashup!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Cinco de Mayo Casserole will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions into airtight containers so the flavors stay fresh and bold.
Freezing
For longer storage, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly (or use freezer-friendly containers). It freezes well for up to three months—just label with the date, so you can always have a fiesta-ready meal on hand.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave until steaming hot, or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese or cilantro just before serving to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven flavor!
FAQs
Can I make Cinco de Mayo Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to one day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time for a hassle-free dinner.
What protein alternatives work well in this casserole?
Besides ground beef or turkey, you can try shredded rotisserie chicken, ground chicken, or even plant-based crumbles to make a meatless version that’s every bit as hearty and flavorful.
Is Cinco de Mayo Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free taco seasoning and double-check any packaged ingredients, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it great for guests with allergies.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Definitely! Choose mild or hot salsa, opt for a spicy taco seasoning, or stir in a dash of hot sauce for extra kick. If serving kids or spice-sensitive guests, use mild versions and let others add heat at the table.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For quick and easy reheating, microwave individual portions until hot, making sure to cover to avoid drying out. If you’re reheating a large amount, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
This Cinco de Mayo Casserole is the kind of recipe friends and family will ask for again and again—it’s cheerful, absolutely delicious, and couldn’t be more fun to share. Give it a try, and watch your kitchen fill with laughter, flavor, and a little bit of fiesta spirit!
Print
Cinco de Mayo Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cinco de Mayo Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together all the delicious Mexican-inspired flavors in one easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for a fiesta-style meal to celebrate the holiday or any day of the week!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Ground Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add Seasoning: Add taco seasoning and water; stir to combine and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cooked rice, and salsa. Mix well and pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cheese: Top with shredded cheese and black olives if using.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or tortilla chips for a complete fiesta-style meal.
- This casserole can also be prepped ahead and refrigerated—just bake an extra 5–10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
