Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary flavor explosion! This Beef Nacho Casserole isn't just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that combines the irresistible crunch of tortilla chips, the bold spiciness of Mexican-inspired flavors, and the comforting richness of melted cheese. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a game night, this recipe promises to be the star of the show that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can nacho cheese soup
- 1 bag tortilla chips
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tsp taco seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 1 lb of ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the 1 tsp of taco seasoning to the cooked ground beef, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, 1 can of nacho cheese soup, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained), and half of the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. This will serve as the base for your casserole.
- Pour the beef and cheese mixture over the layer of tortilla chips, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Top the casserole with the remaining tortilla chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed over the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the tortilla chips, covering the casserole generously.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow it to set slightly for easier serving.
- Serve the Beef Nacho Casserole warm, garnished with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, jalapeños, or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using spicy nacho cheese soup or adding a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
- Don't overcook the ground beef—drain excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Layer your tortilla chips strategically to ensure every bite has the perfect chip-to-topping ratio.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- Customize your toppings! Sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or diced avocado can take this dish to the next level.
- Use fresh, high-quality tortilla chips for the best texture and crunch.
- If you want to make it ahead, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg