Mexican Pastel Azteca is a delightful dish that tantalizes your taste buds with layers of flavor, crispy tortillas, and creamy goodness. perfect Mexican white sauce Picture yourself digging into this vibrant creation, where every bite bursts with the essence of Mexico.
As you savor the aromas wafting from your oven, you’ll find yourself transported to a lively fiesta. This dish is perfect for gatherings, cozy dinners, or simply when you’re in the mood for something deliciously comforting. flavorful huevos rancheros.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mexican Pastel Azteca is easy to prepare and full of rich flavors
- Its beautiful layers make it visually appealing on any table
- Perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, this versatile dish can be customized with various fillings
- The combination of textures will keep everyone coming back for more
I remember the first time I made Mexican Pastel Azteca; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. cheesy ground beef enchiladas They practically fought over the last piece!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Corn Tortillas: These are the backbone of the pastel; opt for fresh or homemade if possible for best results. For more inspiration, check out this flavorful street corn recipe recipe.
-
Shredded Chicken: Cooked chicken works wonders here; use rotisserie chicken for convenience or boil and shred your own.
-
Black Beans: Canned black beans save time; rinse them well to reduce sodium content before using.
-
Green Salsa: A zesty green salsa adds a kick; choose your favorite brand or make your own for added freshness.
-
Cheese Blend: Combining mozzarella and cotija cheese gives a creamy texture; feel free to experiment with other cheeses too!
-
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and balances out the spice; use full-fat sour cream for extra richness.
-
Onions and Garlic: Sautéing these aromatics enhances flavor; don’t skip them—they’re essential!
-
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish; chop it finely to sprinkle on top just before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this cajun lasagna recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it together
**Prepare Your Ingredients**: Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Chop onions and garlic finely to release their aromatic oils while cooking.
**Sauté Aromatics**: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté onions until translucent and fragrant. Toss in minced garlic and cook until golden brown.
**Layer It Up**: In a baking dish, start layering by spreading a thin layer of green salsa at the bottom. Add corn tortillas as your base, followed by shredded chicken, black beans, sautéed onions, and cheese.
**Repeat Layers**: Continue layering with more tortillas, salsa, chicken mixture, and cheese until you reach the top. Finish with a generous layer of cheese for that melty goodness.
**Bake to Perfection**: Place your assembled pastel azteca in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell divine!
**Garnish & Serve**: Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream on the side—everyone will want seconds!
This Mexican Pastel Azteca is not just food; it’s an experience!
You Must Know
- Mexican Pastel Azteca is not just delicious; it’s a festive dish that brings joy
- Layering tortillas with flavors creates a comforting and satisfying meal
- The vibrant colors and aromas will impress everyone at your dinner table
- Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your filling first, then layer tortillas and filling in a baking dish for even cooking. This way, each tortilla soaks in the flavors while maintaining its structure.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients like chicken for veggies or change up the cheese for something unique. unique flavor combinations Adding spices can also create a different flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly melted cheese, use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Cheddar
- Avoid overfilling layers to prevent messy spills while baking
- Let it cool slightly before serving for easier slicing and better presentation
I remember the first time I made Mexican Pastel Azteca; my friends devoured every last bite! They kept asking for seconds, which made me feel like a culinary rock star.

FAQ
What is Mexican Pastel Azteca?
Mexican Pastel Azteca is a layered casserole made with tortillas, filling, and cheese.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace meat with beans or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Bake until cheese is bubbly and golden brown, usually about 25-30 minutes at 350°F.
Mexican Pastel Azteca
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Mexican Pastel Azteca is a vibrant and satisfying layered casserole that celebrates the bold flavors of Mexico. With crispy corn tortillas, tender shredded chicken, zesty green salsa, and a melty cheese blend, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Easy to customize with various fillings, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to every table.
Ingredients
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded chicken (cooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (rinsed)
- 1 cup green salsa
- 2 cups cheese blend (mozzarella and cotija)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion in oil until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook until golden.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of green salsa at the bottom. Layer corn tortillas, followed by shredded chicken, black beans, sautéed onions, and cheese.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh cilantro and serving with sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg




Leave a Comment