A delicious and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired casserole perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the perfect texture.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the refried beans, salsa, and taco seasoning. Cook until heated through.
Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors.
In a greased baking dish, layer two tortillas to cover the bottom. Spread half of the meat mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with a third of the cheese.
Tear tortillas if needed to fit the dish perfectly.
Repeat the layering process with two more tortillas, the remaining meat mixture, and another third of the cheese.
Press down gently to compact the layers.
Top with the final two tortillas, spread the remaining salsa over them, and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
Ensure the top layer is evenly covered with cheese for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Check occasionally to avoid over-browning the cheese.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Serve with additional toppings like guacamole or hot sauce for extra flavor.