Easy Taco Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All-in-One Meal: Combines protein, fiber, and carbs in a single dish, eliminating the need for multiple sides.

• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

• Budget-Friendly: Utilizes affordable pantry staples, making it an economical choice for families.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Its familiar taco flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 packet taco seasoning mix

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup salsa

• 2 cups crushed tortilla chips

• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

• Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced olives, jalapeños

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

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Season: Stir in the taco seasoning mix, black beans, corn, and salsa. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

4. Assemble: Spread 1 cup of crushed tortilla chips in the prepared baking dish. Layer the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheese.

5. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Add your choice of optional toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with additional black beans or a mix of beans and vegetables.

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes between layers.

• Low-Carb: Use crushed pork rinds instead of tortilla chips and opt for a low-carb salsa.

• Gluten-Free: Ensure the taco seasoning and chips are certified gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

• Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes between layers.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a lean alternative that works well in this recipe.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with additional black beans or a mix of beans and vegetables.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How do I prevent the tortilla chips from becoming soggy?

Layering the chips at the bottom and ensuring the beef mixture isn't too watery helps maintain their crunch.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend of your choice.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure the taco seasoning and chips are certified gluten-free.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.

What toppings can I add?

Consider sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced olives, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Taco Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional tacos, offering a comforting and flavorful meal that's sure to satisfy. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you're feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.