Taco Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines the bold flavors of tacos with the ease of a casserole? This Taco Casserole Recipe offers a hearty, layered dish packed with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and fresh toppings — all baked together for a delicious twist on taco night. Did you know casseroles like this can save you up to 30 minutes of cooking time compared to making individual tacos? Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and leftovers!

Ingredients List

1 pound (450g) ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade equivalent)
1 cup diced onions
1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
1 cup crushed tortilla chips or Doritos
1 (8 oz) container sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Substitutions:

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for extra protein.
Use dairy-free cheese to make it vegan-friendly.

Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

This quick bake means you can enjoy a flavorful meal in less than an hour, ideal for busy weeknights.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the beef and veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onions and bell peppers until beef is browned and veggies are tender. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Season and combine

Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

Spread half the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with half the crushed tortilla chips and one cup of shredded cheese. Repeat layers with the remaining beef mixture, chips, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Serve topped with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.

Nutritional Information (Per serving, serves 6)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350
Protein	25g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fiber	5g
Sodium	700mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Use lean ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives to reduce fat content.
Add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach to increase fiber and nutrients.
Swap crushed tortilla chips with baked tortilla strips or omit for lower carbs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fresh guacamole or pico de gallo.
Pair with a side salad or Mexican rice.
Top with jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the beef: Brown it just right to keep it juicy.
Skipping the layering: Proper layering ensures every bite has balanced flavors.
Using soggy chips: Use fresh or crushed chips just before baking for best crunch.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Taco Casserole Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple, fast, and full of vibrant flavors. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it transforms classic taco ingredients into a cozy baked dish everyone will love. Give it a try, and let us know your favorite toppings in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes.