Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole

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Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with Tex-Mex flavor, this Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole is a game-changer for your weeknight dinners. Layers of seasoned ground beef, sauteed peppers and onions, hearty corn, and tortillas come together under a blanket of melted queso and shredded cheese, delivering cozy comfort in every bite.

This dish takes the best parts of fajitas and transforms them into a warm, satisfying casserole perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, it’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table fast.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the rich, layered goodness of this casserole, a few kitchen tools will make your job easier:

• Large Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: Essential for browning your ground beef and sautéing veggies evenly.
• 9×13 Baking Dish: Ideal for layering and baking the casserole. Make sure it’s deep enough to hold all that cheesy, saucy filling.
• Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: Helps stir the beef and vegetables without scratching your pan.
• Cheese Grater: For freshly shredded cheese, which melts better and more evenly than pre-shredded options.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine ingredients like queso and taco seasoning before layering.
• Oven Mitts: Don’t forget these when pulling that bubbly, molten casserole from the oven!

With your tools prepped and ingredients ready, you’re just minutes away from the cheesy comfort of a Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole.

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Ingredients for the Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole

Each ingredient in this dish brings something essential to the party:

• Ground Beef: The flavorful, protein-rich base that gives this casserole its hearty depth.
• Bell Peppers (Red & Green): Offer sweetness and crunch, adding color and that classic fajita feel.
• Onion: Caramelizes while cooking to deepen flavor and bring out a savory balance.
• Corn Kernels: Add bursts of sweetness and texture to every bite.
• Queso Dip: Creamy and bold, this smothers the layers with cheesy goodness that ties everything together.
• Shredded Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese: The melted top layer that gets golden and irresistible in the oven.
• Taco Seasoning: Brings the signature smoky, spicy fajita flavor.
• Tortillas (Flour or Corn): Layered between the filling, they hold everything together and absorb the flavors.
• Jalapeños (Optional): For those who love a spicy kick, they’re perfect on top for added heat and flair.

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How To Make the Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Veggies

In a large skillet, cook ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened. Sprinkle in taco seasoning and mix well.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in corn and a portion of the queso dip. Let everything heat together for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a greased 9×13 baking dish, start with a layer of tortillas, followed by the beef mixture, a drizzle of queso, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with a thick cheese topping.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Top with sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or even a dollop of sour cream. Let it cool slightly before serving to help it set.

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Best Way to Serve and Store This Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole

This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven when the cheese is at its melty, gooey peak. Pair it with simple sides like a green salad, guacamole, or Spanish rice for a complete meal. A drizzle of sour cream or a squeeze of lime over each serving adds a bright, tangy contrast to the richness.

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also portion it out and freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or rewarm a full tray in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this casserole?

It has a mild kick from the taco seasoning and optional jalapeños. If you’re spice-sensitive, skip the jalapeños or use a mild queso.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Can I substitute ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian version work great in this recipe.

Do I have to use both kinds of cheese?

Not at all. You can stick with one, but the combo of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives the best melty flavor balance.

What kind of tortillas work best?

Flour tortillas are soft and hearty, while corn adds a more traditional flavor. Choose based on your texture preference.

How do I keep the casserole from getting soggy?

Lightly toasting the tortillas or keeping the filling relatively thick (not watery) helps maintain structure.

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Want More Casserole Ideas with Tex-Mex Flair?

If this cheesy, bold-flavored bake has you craving more, check out these other satisfying casseroles on Life With Olivia:

• Mexican Cornbread Casserole for a savory-sweet twist that brings comfort and crunch.
• Chicken and Stuffing Casserole if you’re in the mood for cozy, oven-baked classics.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole packed with pasta layers and creamy goodness.
• Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole for the ultimate kid-friendly comfort food.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that brings a gourmet spin to weeknight dinners.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up with extra jalapeños? Try it with chicken or veggie-only?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Don’t hesitate to drop questions or share your tips—let’s keep the kitchen conversation going!

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