Instructions: Meat Mixture: In a skillet, saute ground beef until brown. Add seasoning mix and water. Mix. Set aside.

Bean Mixture: Mix together the picante sauce and the refried beans. Set aside.

In a greased baking dish (8x8 inch or 11x7 inch), layer the ingredients in order as follows:

very thin layer of meat mixture (about 1/4 cup or so)

single layer of tortillas
Meat mixture (reserve some for the top)

single layer of tortillas
Bean mixture - use all of it (may have some left over if using the 8x8 pan)

single layer of tortillas
Grated cheese (reserve some for the top)

single layer of tortillas
remaining Meat Mixture
Remaining grated cheese

Bake casserole at 375 degrees, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Serve with condiments such as shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, salsa, black olives, grated cheese, sour cream, guacamole, etc.

NOTES : I frequently cook the casserole, covered with foil, in a covered gas grill over indirect heat for 20 to 30 minutes. It picks up a slight "smoky" flavor from the grill and keeps me from having to turn the oven on during the summer months.

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