Taco Casserole Recipe
Welcome to your new favorite taco casserole recipe, the ultimate comfort food that combines the cravings of a taco night with the ease of a casserole. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Packed with seasoned beef, melty cheese, and a crunchy topping, this tasty family meal will quickly become a regular fixture on your dinner table.
Growing up, taco nights were a cherished tradition in our household. My mom always had a knack for creating dishes loaded with flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. One especially hectic evening, she improvised by turning our usual taco ingredients into a casserole. The result exceeded all expectations, and from that day on, taco casserole was often requested by everyone at the table. It quickly became a favorite comfort food and is now a beloved tradition that I’m excited to share with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is a game-changer for several reasons. First, its simplicity. You can have this dish ready to bake in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you need dinner done quickly. Second, it’s versatile. You can customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making it an excellent choice for using up leftovers. Lastly, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, pleasing even the pickiest eaters with its savory flavors and delightful textures.
Ingredients Notes
To achieve the best flavor, use lean ground beef, but feel free to swap it with ground turkey for a lighter option. Consider using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a cheesy, gooey topping. You can also add some heat with diced jalapeños or a mild chili pepper for extra zing.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Step 2
Add taco seasoning to the cooked beef and stir in a cup of water. Let it simmer for 5 minutes on low heat until the liquid has reduced and the beef is well-coated with seasoning.
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Step 3
In a baking dish, layer your tortillas as the base; then pour the seasoned beef mixture on top. Make sure it’s evenly spread over the tortillas.
Step 4
Scatter a layer of drained black beans, corn, and any other veggies of your choice over the beef. Top with shredded cheese, spreading it to cover the entire surface.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian: Replace the beef with cooked lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh.
- Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for a kick.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure you use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you plan to serve it, add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s fully heated through.
What side dishes go well with taco casserole? This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, guacamole, or even a side of salsa and tortilla chips. Try adding some Mexican rice or a bean salad for a more filling meal, creating a balanced plate that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
Can I use other meats in this recipe?Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey work well as substitutes for beef. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try shredded rotisserie chicken for a different twist. Just adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste.
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Taco Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef lean
- 1 packet taco seasoning mild
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa mild or medium
- 12 pieces corn tortillas cut into strips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain the excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water to the beef, stirring to combine.
- Layer half of the tortillas at the bottom of a baking dish. Top with half of the salsa, beef mixture, black beans, and cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Bake for 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
