Name: Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded; 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup green bell pepper, sliced; 1 medium yellow onion, sliced; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 4 oz cream cheese; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 fresh jalapeño, sliced (optional)

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, cheesy casserole that brings the bold flavors of a sizzling fajita right to your dinner table. This Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole is the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed. Loaded with seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, onions, and a river of velvety queso, it’s a one-dish wonder that wraps up all your Tex-Mex cravings into one gooey, satisfying bite.

Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or a hearty meal-prep idea, this dish combines the nostalgia of homemade comfort food with the zesty kick of fajita night. It’s creamy, cheesy, and just spicy enough to keep you coming back for seconds (and thirds).

What Kind of Cheese Should I Use for Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole?

For the ultimate queso topping, go with a blend of shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. The cheddar gives a bold depth, while Monterey Jack melts like a dream for that essential queso pull. You can also use a pre-made queso dip if you’re in a pinch—it melts beautifully and adds that creamy Tex-Mex punch.

Ingredients for the Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole

Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless, skinless, cooked and shredded or chopped—the protein foundation of this dish.
Bell peppers (red, yellow, green): Adds color, sweetness, and crunch.
Yellow onion: A must for authentic fajita flavor.
Taco seasoning: Infuses the meat and veggies with that signature Tex-Mex zing.
Cooked rice: Acts as the hearty base to soak up all that cheesy goodness.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel): Brings acidity and subtle heat.
Cream cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the casserole body.
Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese: For that luscious queso melt.
Sliced jalapeños (optional): For a little extra spice on top.

How To Make the Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet, sauté sliced bell peppers and onions in a little oil over medium-high heat until softened and slightly charred. This step builds the fajita base.

Step 2: Season and Mix

Add in your cooked chicken and taco seasoning, stirring well to coat everything. Then stir in diced tomatoes with chilies and cream cheese. Let it melt into a creamy, flavorful mix.

Step 3: Build the Base

Spread cooked rice evenly into a greased 9×13 casserole dish. Pour your creamy chicken and veggie mixture over the top and spread out.

Step 4: Add the Queso Topping

Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese mix generously across the top. Optionally, top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy that ooey-gooey queso layer.

How to Serve and Store Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole

Serve hot straight from the oven. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

You can also freeze this dish before baking. Just assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

What to Serve With Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole?

Mexican Street Corn

Creamy, cheesy, and a perfect balance to the heat in the casserole.

Refried Beans

Classic, simple, and the ultimate Tex-Mex side dish.

Tortilla Chips with Guacamole

Crunchy meets creamy, and it balances the spice beautifully.

Cilantro Lime Rice

A zesty alternative if you didn’t use rice in the casserole base.

Fresh Garden Salad

Crisp veggies and a tangy dressing offer refreshing contrast.

Pickled Red Onions

Bright and vinegary bites that cut through the richness.

Mango Salsa

Sweet and spicy, this salsa brings an unexpected tropical twist.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love cheesy, comforting casserole dishes, check out these reader favorites next:

Chicken Taco Casserole when you want taco night in one easy dish.
French Onion Beef Rice Casserole for a rich and savory baked meal.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings if you’re craving comfort with minimal effort.
Runza Casserole for a Midwestern twist that will surprise you.
Creamy Crack Chicken for the ultimate indulgent bake.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you tossed in some black beans or topped with crushed tortilla chips? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Bring bold Tex-Mex flavor straight to your table with this Queso Smothered Fajita Casserole. It’s a cheesy, spicy, and comforting dish loaded with seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers, onions, rice, and a creamy queso topping that melts to perfection. Whether you’re after an easy dinner idea, a weeknight casserole, or crave-worthy comfort food, this meal has you covered. Ideal for meal prepping, family dinners, or potlucks, it’s a must-try recipe for those who love hearty food ideas, quick dinners, or cozy bake-and-serve meals.