Taco Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 1/2 cups frozen or canned corn, drained
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1 bag (9–10 oz) tortilla chips, slightly crushed
• 1 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or diced avocado

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the meat is browned and fully cooked.
• Drain any excess grease.
• Add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Casserole Base

• Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and salsa. Cook for 2–3 minutes to warm the mixture through.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Spoon half of the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
• Top with sour cream and your favorite toppings, like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado.

Tips for Success

• Taco Seasoning: Use homemade taco seasoning if you prefer to control the spice level.
• Layering Tip: For extra crunch, save a handful of tortilla chips to sprinkle on top just before serving.
• Customizable Fillings: Add bell peppers, green chilies, or even rice to the beef mixture for variety.

Variations

• Chicken Taco Casserole: Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with additional beans or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or lentils.
• Spicy Twist: Use a spicier salsa or add hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.

Why You’ll Love This Taco Casserole

• Family Favorite: A crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this recipe a breeze.
• Loaded with Flavor: All the best taco flavors in a warm, cheesy, and crunchy casserole.

Enjoy!