Lower Fat Mexican Tortilla Casserole

Indulge in the bold flavors of this Lower Fat Mexican Tortilla Casserole, a lightened-up twist on a comforting classic. Packed with lean ground turkey, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and zesty spices like cumin and smoked paprika, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Layers of whole wheat tortillas and reduced-fat cheddar cheese create a satisfying casserole that's perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With a quick 20-minute prep time and a bubbling, golden finish in the oven, this easy recipe delivers all the vibrant taste of Mexican cuisine in a healthier package. Topped with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness, this family-friendly meal is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes (low-sodium)
• 15 ounces canned black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 4 large whole wheat tortillas
• 1.5 cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 0 nonstick cooking spray

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned, about 6-7 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, and mix well to coat the turkey evenly in the spices.

Step 6

Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, and frozen corn. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 7

Cut the tortillas into quarters to make layering easier.

Step 8

Place a single layer of tortilla pieces on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 9

Spread one-third of the turkey mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle about one-fourth of the shredded cheese over the top.

Step 10

Repeat the layering process (tortillas, turkey mixture, and cheese) two more times, ending with a final layer of cheese on the top.

Step 11

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Step 12

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 13

Garnish the casserole with chopped cilantro before serving. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes to set, then slice and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2172.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2722.9

Total Fat 107.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 37.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 541.8mg	0%
Sodium 3760.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 248.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 54.5g	0%
Total Sugars 39.0g
Protein 198.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1752.9mg	0%
Iron 24.6mg	0%
Potassium 4698.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.2%

Protein: 28.8%

Carbs: 36.0%