Vegetable Nacho Cheese Casserole

Name: Vegetable Nacho Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups tortilla chips; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 teaspoon taco seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love creating dishes that are both comforting and packed with flavor, and this Vegetable Nacho Cheese Casserole is my go-to recipe. With layers of vibrant veggies, creamy cheese, and crispy nachos, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a satisfying meal that won't leave you feeling heavy. Perfect for family dinners or a fun game night, this casserole is quick to prepare and bursting with colorful ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it quickly becomes a favorite in your home!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:17:27.815Z

When I first made this Vegetable Nacho Cheese Casserole, I wanted to create a dish that didn’t just satisfy my cravings but also offered a healthy twist. Combining veggies like bell peppers, corn, and black beans really enhances both the flavor and the nutrition profile. Plus, using a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack brings an irresistible depth to the cheese layer.

I always add a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro on top before serving. It adds a fresh burst of flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to sneak some veggies into your meal without compromising on taste!

Reasons You'll Love This Casserole
Cheesy goodness that satisfies every craving
Colorful veggies packed with nutrients
Perfect for sharing during family gatherings

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Each component of the Vegetable Nacho Cheese Casserole plays a vital role in building its flavor profile. The combination of red and green bell peppers not only adds a vibrant color but also a sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheeses. Fresh vegetables enhance the dish's overall taste, so if you have the option, use fresh corn rather than canned to capture that sweet, juicy flavor. This small change can significantly elevate the dish.

To amplify the flavor even more, consider using homemade seasoning. While taco seasoning works perfectly, creating your own blend with chili powder, cumin, and paprika can give the casserole a unique kick. It’s all about layering flavors, and this additional step can make a great difference in the final taste, transforming a simple casserole into a standout dish at your dinner table.

The Importance of Proper Layering

Layering is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this casserole. Start with a layer of tortilla chips to provide the crunchy base. Distributing half of the veggie mixture evenly ensures every bite is bursting with nutrients. As you build your layers, make sure not to pack them too tightly; this promotes even melting of the cheese and prevents any sogginess from forming.

When it comes to cheese, don't hesitate to experiment: different brands and states of cheese can yield varying results. For instance, using a sharper cheddar can add depth, while a milder Monterey Jack brings creaminess. It's helpful to shred the cheese yourself as pre-shredded options often contain anti-caking agents, which can hinder melting. Aim for a gooey, bubbly texture that signals readiness when the edges turn golden brown.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this flavorful casserole.

Ingredients

2 cups tortilla chips
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 teaspoon taco seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious casserole!

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the veggie mixture

In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, onion, taco seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Layer the ingredients

In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the tortilla chips evenly. Add half of the veggie mixture on top, followed by one cup of cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process with the remaining chips, veggie mixture, and top with Monterey Jack cheese.

Bake the casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Vegetable Nacho Cheese Casserole!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños to the veggie mixture or garnishing with slices on top before serving. You can also substitute any of your favorite vegetables for customization!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is an excellent option for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it when you're ready to enjoy it. If planning to freeze, I recommend freezing it before baking. This way, you can pop it in the oven when desired without compromising freshness. Frozen, it can last up to three months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

For reheating, use the oven instead of the microwave for optimal texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Uncover for the last few minutes to restore that glorious bubbling cheese on top.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Vegetable Nacho Cheese Casserole is versatile and can easily be personalized. For a protein boost, consider adding shredded chicken or ground turkey to the veggie mixture. If you want to keep it vegetarian, black lentils are a fantastic addition for extra texture and heartiness. Don’t hesitate to pile on additional toppings when serving, like fresh avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or diced tomatoes for freshness.

For a spicier twist, mix in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can even switch up the cheese types: a bit of pepper jack will add both flavor and heat, while adding cream cheese can give you a luscious, rich texture. Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake it.

→ Is this casserole vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, substitute the cheese with plant-based cheese options, and ensure the tortilla chips are vegan as well.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Sour cream, guacamole, and sliced olives are great additions for extra flavor and texture!

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container. However, the texture of the cheese may change once thawed.