Description
Taco casserole layers seasoned beef, chips, beans, and melted cheese into a one-dish dinner. It bakes up hearty, bubbly, and weeknight-friendly.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound ground beef
Produce and Beans:
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
Seasonings and Toppings:
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups salsa
- 4 tortillas, cut into strips
- 2 cups shredded cheese
Instructions
- Heat your oven to precisely 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment.
- Sizzle 1 pound ground beef and 1 diced onion in a skillet over medium-high heat until the meat turns completely brown and onions become translucent.
- Eliminate excess fat from the skillet, then incorporate 1 can drained black beans, 1 can drained corn, 1 packet taco seasoning, and 2 cups salsa. Mix thoroughly.
- Grab a baking dish and arrange 2 cut tortilla strips to cover the bottom, creating a crispy foundation.
- Spread half of your seasoned meat mixture directly over the tortilla layer, ensuring even coverage.
- Generously scatter 1 cup shredded cheese across the meat, allowing it to melt and connect the layers.
- Construct a second layer by adding remaining tortilla strips on top of the cheese.
- Pour remaining meat mixture over the strips, creating a hearty second tier.
- Crown the casserole with the final 1 cup of shredded cheese, covering the entire surface.
- Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for exactly 25-30 minutes until cheese bubbles and turns golden.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set and cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter protein option.
- Customize heat levels by choosing mild, medium, or spicy salsa and taco seasoning.
- Prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate – it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
- Top with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream to add brightness and extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casseroles
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 to 6
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg