This Easy Mary Berry Mexican Tortilla Bake is a warm, cheesy dish layered with tortillas, beans, and vibrant vegetables. It’s quick to make, and everyone will love it!
What’s great is that it’s one of those meals where leftovers taste even better. I always look forward to that! Plus, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor to the dish. If you prefer something lighter, you can use vegetable oil. I like the taste of olive, but it’s really up to your preference!
Minced Meat: You can use either beef or turkey for this recipe. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute. I’ve enjoyed quinoa as a meat replacement in similar dishes!
Cheese: Mature cheddar cheese is perfect because it melts beautifully and adds a rich taste. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based cheese alternatives. Personally, I love adding a bit of pepper jack for extra spice!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are the easiest to work with. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider whole wheat tortillas. Corn tortillas are also a great gluten-free choice without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure to use small ones for even layers.
How Do I Layer the Tortilla Bake Properly?
Layering is key to creating a great texture in this dish. You want to ensure that each layer has an even distribution of meat and tortillas for the best bite. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a thin layer of meat mixture at the bottom of your dish. This prevents sticking.
- Place one tortilla on top, ensuring it’s centered.
- Spread another layer of the meat mixture on the tortilla, covering it well.
- Repeat this process until you’re out of tortillas and meat—always ending with a tortilla layer.
- Top the last tortilla with cheese for a delicious, cheesy crust.
Let it rest after baking—this makes cutting and serving easier. Enjoy this comforting meal that brings everyone to the table! 🌟
Easy Mary Berry Mexican Tortilla Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped
- 400g (14 oz) mince (beef or turkey)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust as preferred)
- 400g can chopped tomatoes
- 400g can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 to 5 small soft flour tortillas
- 150g (about 1 1/2 cups) grated mature cheddar cheese
- Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mexican Tortilla Bake takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes. It’s a quick and hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F or Gas Mark 5) so it’s ready for your bake when you’re done preparing the layers.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook gently for about 5 minutes or until they are softened, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Garlic and Mince:
Now, add the crushed garlic to the pan. Cook it for another minute until it’s fragrant. Next, stir in the mince (beef or turkey) and cook until it’s browned all over. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix in the Spices:
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Season the mix with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together nicely to combine through.
5. Add Tomatoes and Beans:
Pour in the chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato purée. Mix it thoroughly, then let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This will help all those wonderful flavors blend together. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
6. Layer It Up:
Take an ovenproof dish and lightly oil it. Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on the bottom. Place one tortilla on top of the meat, then add more meat mixture over the tortilla, spreading it evenly. Repeat this layering process until you’re out of tortillas and meat, finishing with a tortilla on top.
7. Cheese Time!
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the final tortilla layer. This will melt beautifully and create a delicious crust.
8. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
9. Rest and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve. Before serving, sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top for a lovely garnish.
This Mexican Tortilla Bake serves 4-6 people and pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some fresh guacamole and sour cream!
Enjoy your meal! 🌮
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great, lighter alternative to beef and will work perfectly in this recipe. It will still provide that wonderful flavor, just a bit leaner!
What Can I Substitute for Kidney Beans?
If you don’t have kidney beans on hand, black beans or pinto beans are fantastic substitutes. They’ll add similar texture and flavor. Just ensure they’re drained and rinsed before adding them to the mix!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. If you find it dry, a splash of water can help add moisture!
Can I Make This Bake Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the minced meat with lentils or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based options. It will still be delicious and hearty!
