Name: Taco Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning mix; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained; 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 3 cups tortilla chips, lightly crushed; 1/2 cup sour cream; Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, sliced black olives, shredded lettuce, salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Casserole combines the bold flavors of a taco with the comforting heartiness of a casserole. Layered with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound lean ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
3 cups tortilla chips, lightly crushed
1/2 cup sour cream
Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, sliced black olives, shredded lettuce,

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add Seasoning and Vegetables: Stir in the taco seasoning mix, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips. Top with half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream and any optional toppings you desire.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein or additional beans.
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy salsa to increase the heat.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the tortilla chips are gluten-free and use gluten-free taco seasoning.
Cheesy: Incorporate a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze taco casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, feel free to use pinto beans, kidney beans, or any other variety you prefer.

Is this casserole spicy?

The level of spice depends on the salsa and taco seasoning used. For a milder dish, opt for mild salsa and seasoning.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Add diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to The beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Taco Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the classic tastes of tacos into a convenient and hearty casserole form. Its versatility allows for numerous variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.