Easy Mexican Casserole (Vegan taco lasagna recipe)

Jump to Recipe

Mexican casserole vegan recipe – Indulge your taste buds in a symphony of flavors with this sensational Vegan Mexican Casserole. Picture layers of vibrant vegetables, succulent black beans, and the delightful crunch of vegan tacos or Dorito chips all coming together in a fiesta of taste. It’s a delicious vegetarian dinner with a melody of textures—from the hearty beans to the crispiness of crushed Doritos—creating a delightful harmony in every bite of Classic Mexican Casserole gone meatless. We’re talking the ultimate cheesy, savory, and irresistibly delicious casserole dinner for the whole family! This easy vegan enchilada casserole recipe is perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights. Make this tasty easy Dorito casserole in advance, freeze it for later and simply reheat the easy casserole with little effort when you’re ready to enjoy the delicious vegan taco casserole.

What sets this delicious Meatless Mexican food casserole apart is not just its plant-based credentials but the explosion of Mexican-inspired tastes that dance on your palate. The medley of colors and flavors is a celebration of wholesome ingredients, crowned with the gooey perfection of vegan cheese, all seasoned with the irresistible allure of taco seasoning and salsa.

This dish isn’t just a feast for vegans; it’s a flavor-packed journey that enchants everyone around the table. So, if you’re craving a culinary adventure that’s both delicious and compassionate, this Vegan Mexican Casserole is your ticket to a taste extravaganza! Get ready to savor every bite of this delightful creation that brings the essence of Mexico to your plate. 

Instant pot recipes: easy instant pot recipe favorite dinners 

But this isn’t just a delicious easy recipe, it’s also a great easy weeknight dinner recipe. This instant pot Mexican recipe is full of ever-loved Mexican flavor profile all stuffed into one great recipe for the entire family! Without the need for long time cooking, you get the ultimate easy weeknight dinner. 

What is vegan and vegetarian Mexican Casserole 

Vegan Mexican Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together a variety of plant-based ingredients inspired by Mexican cuisine. What makes it so delicious is the harmonious blend of textures and flavors – from the hearty black beans and crunchy Doritos to the vibrant vegetables and melty vegan cheese. The combination of spices, like taco seasoning and salsa, adds a zesty kick that elevates the overall taste.

This casserole not only offers a burst of Mexican-inspired goodness but also caters to those following a vegan lifestyle. The layers of ingredients create a delightful medley of tastes, making it a crowd-pleaser even for those who aren’t exclusively plant-based. Whether you’re a vegan enthusiast or simply looking for a tasty and easy-to-make dish, this Vegan Mexican Casserole is a winner that brings joy to the table! 

Equipment needed to make meatless Mexican casserole 

To prepare the delicious Vegan Mexican Casserole, you’ll need a few easy dinner kitchen essentials:

1. Baking Dish or oven-safe skillet: Choose a large baking dish of appropriate size to hold all the ingredients. It’s ideal if it’s oven-safe and has enough depth for layering the vegan enchilada casserole recipe.

2. Cooking Utensils: You’ll need basic utensils like a cutting board, knives, and a mixing spoon for preparing and combining the vegan enchilada casserole recipe ingredients.

3. Can Opener: If you’re using canned black beans or corn, a can opener will be handy.

4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect balance of flavors. Have measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients and a set of spoons on hand.

5. Oven (or Alternative Appliances): You can bake the casserole in a conventional oven. If you prefer alternative methods, an air fryer, instant pot, or crockpot can be used with adjustments to the cooking time.

With these kitchen tools, you’ll be all set to create a mouthwatering vegan Mexican casserole! 

Recipe for Mexican Casserole with Doritos or tacos ingredients 

Mexican Casserole vegan Recipe Ingredients:

This delicious vegetarian enchilada casserole is a wonderful recipe that’s loaded with lots of veggies, juicy fresh corn, vegan cheese all held together by a delicious tomato sauce and the crunch of taco. This isn’t just your traditional enchiladas recipe, it’s a mexican tortilla casserole on a whole new level of deliciousness and cozy comfort food flavors. It’s a Mexican lasagna vegan dinner recipe that is the perfect dinner addition to a plant-based diet. It’s sure to be your new favorite and a big hit with the whole family. 

For the Casserole:

1. Cooked Black Beans (2 cups / 400g): Hearty and protein-packed, these beans form the base of our flavorful casserole. You can use canned black beans or boil your own, as you prefer. Alternatively, you can substitute with kidney beans, red beans, butter beans, or mixed beans, as you prefer. Alternatively, you can substitute with refried beans, or even leftover black beans to make this tasty black bean enchiladas casserole.

2. Corn Kernels (1 cup / 200g): Sweet and crunchy, adding a burst of golden goodness to the mix. You can opt for canned sweet corn, or carefully cut corn of a cob. 

3. Diced Bell Peppers (1 cup / 150g): Vibrant colors and a crisp texture to enhance the overall appeal. Use a mixture of red peppers, yellow peppers and green peppers for the ultimate color fiesta. 

4. Diced Tomatoes (1 cup / 150g): Juicy tomatoes for a burst of freshness and acidity. Any type of fresh tomatoes will work, from Roma tomatoes to juicy cherry tomatoes just go ahead and use whatever you have on hand. Alternatively, you can substitute with a can of chunky crushed tomatoes or fire roasted canned tomatoes. 

5. Diced Red Onion (1 cup / 100g): Adds a zingy kick and beautiful color contrast. Alternatively, you can substitute with yellow onion to make this tasty main dish vegan taco casserole.

6. Sliced Black Olives (1 cup / 100g): Briny goodness for that delightful Mediterranean touch.

Seasoning and crunch ingredients

7. Vegan Shredded Cheese (2 cups / 200g): Melty, gooey perfection to bind everything together. Use your favorite non-dairy cheese like vegan pepper Jack, cheddar cheese, plant based monterey jack cheese, or vegan cheese sauce. 

8. Taco Seasoning (1 packet / 1 oz): A flavorful blend of spices for that authentic tex-mex recipes taco taste that’s a key ingredient in the easy vegan enchilada casserole. If you would rather make your own taco seasoning you can use our easy taco seasoning recipe below to make a healthy vegan enchilada casserole with all natural seasoning ingredients. 

9. Salsa (1 cup / 240ml): Tomatoey goodness with a kick to elevate the dish. Use your favorite salsa, whether it’s your homemade sauce or your favorite grocery store salsa. 

10. Vegan Doritos or Taco Shells (1 bag / 200g, crushed): The crunchy crown on our vegetarian taco casserole masterpiece. Opt for your preferred crunchy tacos or nacho cheese doritos to make this tasty dorito taco bake. Alternatively, you can use flour tortillas or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option that’s been baked crispy. 

For Garnish:

Fresh Cilantro, Chopped: A fragrant and vibrant herb to sprinkle on top.

Avocado, Sliced: Creamy avocado slices for a buttery finish.

Vegan Sour Cream: A dollop of coolness to balance the bold flavors.

Get ready for a fiesta of flavors with this Vegan Mexican Casserole! 

Quick homemade taco seasoning recipe 

In case you can’t get taco seasoning at your local grocery store, or you just prefer making your own we’ve got you covered. Making your own taco seasoning at home is not only simple but also lets you control the flavors to suit your taste buds. This homemade blend of spices brings a perfect balance of smokiness, warmth, and a hint of heat to your favorite taco recipes. Get ready to elevate your taco nights with this easy and customizable taco seasoning recipe! 

Here’s a quick and easy recipe for homemade taco seasoning:

Instructions:

    1.    In a small bowl, mix all the spices together until well combined.

    2.    Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference, adding more red pepper flakes for heat if desired.

    3.    Store the taco seasoning in an airtight container until ready to use.

Usage:

    •    Use about 2 tablespoons of this homemade taco seasoning for every pound of meat or plant-based protein in your taco recipe.

    •    Adjust the quantity based on your flavor preferences.

Now you’re all set to add a burst of homemade flavor to your tacos! 

Best vegan cheese for casseroles 

When it comes to choosing vegan cheese for casseroles, there are several excellent options available. Here are some popular vegan cheese brands known for their meltability and great flavor:

1. Daiya: Daiya offers a variety of vegan cheese products, including shreds, slices, and blocks. Their cheese melts well and works nicely in casseroles.

2. Follow Your Heart: This brand produces vegan cheeses that are known for their rich and creamy texture. Their shreds and slices are versatile for casserole recipes.

3. Violife: Violife is known for its great melting properties, making it suitable for casseroles. They offer a range of flavors, including cheddar and mozzarella.

4. Miyoko’s Creamery: Miyoko’s is famous for its artisanal vegan cheeses. While they may not melt as much as some others, their flavor is exceptional, making them a good choice for certain casseroles.

5. Chao by Field Roast: Chao cheeses, especially the Creamy Original and Tomato Cayenne flavors, have a fantastic texture and melt well. They add a unique touch to casseroles.

6. So Delicious: This brand is known for its dairy-free products, including shreds and slices. Their cheeses work well in various recipes, including casseroles.

Remember that personal preferences play a role in choosing the best vegan cheese, so feel free to explore different brands and types to find the one that suits your taste and the specific casserole you’re making.

Dairy free Mexican Casserole Recipe 

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with this quick and delightful Vegan Mexican Casserole. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this cheesy casserole brings together the zesty goodness of black beans, colorful veggies, and the satisfying crunch of Doritos (or tacos). Whether you choose to bake it, air fry, use an Instant Pot, or let it simmer in the crockpot, this family favorite hearty casserole dish promises a fiesta of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Get ready to savor every bite of this plant-based taco pie delight that’s perfect for a hearty meal any day of the week! All your family members will find this Dorito taco casserole to be one of their favorite recipes!

Here’s my delicious recipe for Vegan Mexican Casserole using Doritos or tacos with instructions for the oven, air fryer, instant pot, and crockpot. It doesn’t get any easier than all these cooking methods to suit your needs and mood:

How to make Vegan Mexican casserole in the oven Instructions:

Dairy free taco casserole – Oven Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, mix together black beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, red onion, black olives, vegan shredded cheese, taco seasoning, and salsa.

3. Layer half of the crushed Doritos or taco shells in a baking dish. Pour the bean and vegetable mixture over the chips.

4. Top with the remaining crushed Doritos or taco shells over the top of the casserole.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.

6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, and vegan sour cream before serving.

Air fryer Plant based Mexican taco casserole – Air Fryer Method:

1. Follow steps 1-3 from the oven method.

2. Transfer the mixture to an air fryer basket, layering with crushed Doritos or taco shells.

3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

4. Garnish as suggested.

Pressure cooker Mexican Casserole – Instant pot casserole recipe method:

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Follow steps 1-3, sautéing the mixture until heated through.

2. Layer the mixture, remaining ingredients and crushed Doritos or taco shells in the Instant Pot.

3. Close the lid and set to manual high pressure for 8 minutes.

4. Allow for natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure.

5. Garnish with your favorite toppings before serving.

Crockpot Mexican casserole – Crockpot Method:

1. In a skillet, sauté the mixture until heated through. Transfer to the crockpot.

2. Layer with crushed Doritos or taco shells.

3. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

4. Garnish before serving.

Enjoy this versatile and delicious Vegan Mexican Casserole with your preferred cooking method! 

Tips and Tricks for making the best Mexican Casserole vegan

Enhance your Vegan Mexican Casserole game with these savvy tips:

Unleash the full potential of flavors, textures, and plant-based goodness as you embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant world of Mexican-inspired cuisine. These tips will guide you to create a stellar casserole that’s both delicious and satisfying.

For an outstanding Vegan Mexican Casserole, consider these tips and tricks:

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh and vibrant vegetables to enhance the best casserole flavors. Use high-quality tortillas or Doritos for that extra crunch to your delicious dinner.

2. Layering Technique: Arrange the layers strategically to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Place ingredients like beans, veggies, and Doritos evenly for a balanced bite in every scoop. Add loads of cheese, layers of doritos and bake this delicious dorito casserole recipe for your next taco night.

3. Seasoning Sensation: Elevate the taste with a well-balanced blend of Mexican spices. Cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder can add depth and authenticity to your dish.

4. Plant-Powered Proteins: Incorporate plant-based proteins like black beans, pinto beans, or lentils for a hearty and nutritious twist to the easy taco bake. They’ll provide a satisfying texture and make your Dorito tortilla chips casserole a wholesome meal.

5. Mindful Cheese Choice: If you’re adding vegan cheese, choose a variety that melts well and complements the flavors of the layered casserole. Vegan nacho cheese or a blend of dairy-free alternatives can add creaminess to your casserole.

6. Sauce it Right: Consider adding a flavorful taco sauce or salsa between layers to keep the casserole moist and rich in taste. A homemade enchilada sauce or a zesty salsa can be excellent choices.

7. Baking Brilliance: Pay attention to baking time and temperature. Ensure the casserole is cooked through while maintaining the desired texture of your Doritos or tacos.

8. Garnish Galore: Finish with a flourish! Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, vegan sour cream, or a squeeze of lime can provide a burst of freshness and elevate the visual appeal.

Experiment with these tips to create a vegan Mexican casserole that’s not only visually stunning but also a fiesta for your taste buds!

Delicious vegan and vegetarian Spanish casserole variations 

Enhance your Vegan Mexican Casserole with these flavorful variations and add-in ideas:

1. Zesty Salsa Fresca:

   Top your casserole with a generous serving of fresh salsa. Tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice will add a burst of flavor.

2. Creamy Avocado Slices:

   Layer slices of ripe avocado to bring a creamy and buttery texture, complementing the other ingredients.

3. Black Bean and Corn Salsa:

   Mix black beans and corn with lime juice, red onion, and cilantro for a colorful and tasty salsa to serve on the side.

4. Pickled Jalapeños:

   Add a kick with pickled jalapeños. The tangy and spicy flavor will elevate the overall taste.

5. Vegan Sour Cream or Cashew Cream:

   Drizzle vegan sour cream or a luscious cashew cream over the casserole before serving for a decadent touch.

6. Crispy Tortilla Strips:

   Sprinkle crushed baked tortilla strips on top for a crunchy element, reminiscent of nachos.

7. Mango Salsa:

   Incorporate a fruity twist with mango salsa, featuring diced mangoes, red onion, cilantro, and a splash of lime juice.

8. Roasted Poblano Peppers:

   Roast and slice poblano peppers for a smoky, mild heat that enhances the depth of flavors.

More topping ideas:

    1.    Spicy Twist:

Add diced jalapeños or green chilies for an extra kick. For a smoky flavor, consider incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.

    2.    Guacamole Magic:

Layer your casserole with dollops of fresh guacamole just before serving. The creamy avocado goodness adds a delightful richness.

    3.    Cornbread Topping:

Bake a quick cornbread layer on top for a Tex-Mex fusion. The contrast of textures enhances the overall dining experience.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a personalized and mouthwatering Vegan Mexican Casserole experience!

How to eat Mexican Casserole 

Explore creative ways to enjoy your Vegan Mexican Casserole with these delightful serving suggestions:

Dive into the vibrant flavors of your casserole by trying out various serving styles. Whether you prefer classic plates, bowls, or adventurous wraps, there’s a way to make your mealtime exciting. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Enjoy your Vegan Mexican Casserole in creative and delicious ways:

1. Classic Casserole Dish:

   Serve generous portions of the casserole on individual plates or in bowls for a hearty and satisfying meal.

2. Taco Bowl Style:

   Create a taco bowl by layering the casserole over a bed of shredded lettuce or rice. Top it with your favorite taco toppings like guacamole, salsa, and vegan sour cream.

3. Stuffed Peppers:

   Scoop the casserole into hollowed-out bell peppers, bake until the peppers are tender, and enjoy a tasty stuffed pepper dish.

4. Wrap it Up:

   Use large tortillas to wrap portions of the casserole, creating flavorful burritos or wraps. Add extra toppings and sauces for a handheld treat.

5. Nachos Supreme:

   Transform the casserole into a nacho feast by layering it over tortilla chips. Top with vegan cheese, jalapeños, and other nacho fixings.

6. Quesadilla Filling:

   Sandwich the casserole between tortillas with vegan cheese to make a mouthwatering quesadilla.

7. Burrito Bowl:

   Serve the casserole in a bowl alongside rice, beans, and fresh veggies to create a deconstructed burrito bowl.

8. Top a Salad:

   Spoon the casserole over a bed of mixed greens for a flavorful and nutritious salad. Add avocado slices and a drizzle of lime dressing.

Experiment with these ideas to savor the diverse flavors of your Vegan Mexican Casserole in different formats!

How to prep, store and reheat Mexican Casserole 

Effortlessly manage your Vegan Mexican Casserole with these helpful tips for preparation, storage, and reheating:

How to meal prep Mexican casserole with tacos – Preparation guide:

1. Oven Method:

   – Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature for your casserole.

   – Follow the recipe instructions to assemble the casserole in a baking dish.

   – Bake until it reaches the desired doneness, ensuring all ingredients are cooked through.

2. Air Fryer Method:

   – Preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

   – Transfer the casserole to an air fryer-safe dish or basket.

   – Air fry until it achieves a crispy texture on top.

3. Instant Pot Method:

   – Assemble the casserole in the Instant Pot.

   – Follow the recipe’s instructions for pressure cooking.

   – Allow pressure to release naturally or follow the recommended quick release method.

4. Crockpot Method:

   – Layer the casserole ingredients in the slow cooker.

   – Cook on low for the specified time or until the ingredients are tender.

How to store leftover gluten free Mexican Casserole – Storage guide:

– Once the casserole has cooled, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

– Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

How to reheat Mexican casserole – easy Reheating guide:

1. Oven Reheating:

   – Preheat the oven to a low to medium temperature.

   – Cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying.

   – Reheat until warmed through.

2. Microwave Reheating:

   – Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish.

   – Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.

Enjoy the convenience of preparing, storing, and reheating your delightful Vegan Mexican Casserole!

What I’ve been making lately

• Easy Broccoli Potato casserole (Vegan cheesy bake)
• Hummus wrap recipe: easy Mediterranean veggie wraps
• Easy falafel sandwich recipe: best homemade pita
• Best Mediterranean veggie sandwich: easy veg recipe
• Mexican Cookies recipe: Traditional wedding cookie

Plant based Mexican Casserole FAQs

Delicious sauces and sides  

• The best vegan Mushroom gravy
• Easy vegan Brown gravy 
• Easy vegan Bernaise sauce
• Vegan aioli recipe
• Peanut sauce recipe
• Easy homemade Hoisin sauce 
• Japanese Hibachi Brown Sauce

Are you looking for more delicious dishes? You might like some of these:

• Vegan Mashed sweet potatoes
• How to make the best baked sweet potatoes
• Hasselback sweet potatoes
• Thai pumpkin and sweet potato soup

Vegan sides: serving ideas

• Portobello avocado mushroom steaks
• Lentil burgers
• Celeriac steak
• Vegan roast
• My vegan brisket (or my gluten-free vegan brisket)

DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY MEXICAN CASSEROLE RECIPE?

Please leave us a review in the comments below the recipe card and let us know how it turned out 🙂