Friday night fun recipe: Cheesy Mexican beef bubble-up bake

Looking for an easy and delicious Friday night dinner that’s full of flavour and ready in under an hour?

This Cheesy Mexican Beef Bubble-Up Bake is the ultimate comfort food made with budget-friendly minced beef, plenty of melted cheese and soft pillowy biscuit pieces. It’s the perfect fun, fuss-free meal for people who want maximum taste with minimal prep – ideal for busy grandparents, weekend entertaining or cosy nights at home.

Cheesy Mexican Beef Bubble-Up Bake (Serves 4–6)

Ingredients

500g minced beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 brown onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade equivalent)
1 cup tomato passata (or canned crushed tomatoes)
1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
1 cup kidney beans, rinsed (optional for extra protein)
1 cup grated tasty cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups diced soft bread rolls
Fresh coriander, spring onion or sliced chilli (optional topping)

Method

Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan-forced).
Heat olive oil in a large frypan. Add onion and cook until softened.
Add minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
Add garlic and taco seasoning. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in passata, corn and beans. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Remove from heat and stir through the grated cheese and sour cream.
Cut bread rolls into small bite-sized pieces and gently fold them through the beef mixture.
Transfer everything into a greased baking dish.
Top with extra cheese – because it’s Friday night!
Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden, bubbling and irresistible.
Garnish with coriander, spring onion or fresh chilli.
Serve with a crisp salad, steamed greens or just a spoon – no judgement.

Why It’s Perfect for a Friday Night

Fast prep and mostly pantry staples
Comforting, cheesy and fun
Great for families, neighbours, grandkids
Delicious leftovers (if there are any)