
Savoury layers of tortillas, cheese, and seasoned beef create a deliciously hearty Tex-Mex Tortilla Cake.
Prep
20 min
Cook
35 min
Total
60 min
Servings
8
Difficulty
Medium

Instructions
Prepare the Beef Mixture
Prepare the Beef Mixture In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat. Ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F / 71°C by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the mixture.
Pro tip: Use lean ground beef to minimize excess grease.
Season the Beef
Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add drained black beans and mix well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavours.
Assemble the Cake
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly oil a springform pan. Place a tortilla at the bottom, spread a layer of beef mixture, followed by a layer of cheese and salsa. Repeat layers, ending with a tortilla and a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Pro tip: Press down each layer gently to compact the cake.
Bake the Tortilla Cake
Cover the pan with foil and bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Pro tip: Ensure cheese is evenly distributed for the best coverage.
Rest and Unmould
Allow the cake to rest for 5 minutes before removing from the pan. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then gently release the springform.
Pro tip: If using a regular pan, line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Serve
Slice the tortilla cake into wedges and serve with additional salsa and sour cream, if desired.
Pro tip: Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavour and colour.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh tortillas for best results; stale ones may crack.
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Let the cake rest for a few minutes before slicing to maintain its shape.
- Use a springform pan for easier removal and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to cook the tortilla cake?
Bake for a total of 35 minutes: 25 minutes covered and 10 minutes uncovered.
What is a gateau mexicain?
A gateau mexicain, or Mexican cake, can refer to savoury dishes like tortilla cakes, featuring layers of tortillas, meat, and cheese.
Can I make tortilla cake ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the cake in advance, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What type of tortillas should I use?
Use large flour tortillas for a more cohesive texture and easy layering.
Can I freeze the tortilla cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Nutrition per serving
450
Calories
25g
Protein
20g
Fat
40g
Carbs
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