Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering fiesta that will have everyone begging for seconds! This Taco Casserole with Ground Beef is not just another boring dinner – it's a culinary adventure that combines the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of a hearty casserole. Imagine layers of crispy tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and vibrant vegetables all baked to perfection – this dish is about to become your new family favorite that's both easy to make and impossibly delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 2 cups tortilla chips
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your casserole.
- In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the ground beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This will help keep your casserole from becoming greasy.
- Add the packet of taco seasoning to the skillet with the ground beef. Follow the instructions on the seasoning packet, typically adding a small amount of water (about 1/2 cup) and stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the beef is simmering, prepare the other ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the can of diced tomatoes (with juices), drained and rinsed black beans, and corn. Stir to combine these ingredients evenly.
- Once the beef is ready, add it to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes, beans, and corn. Mix everything together until well combined.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. This will create a crunchy base for your casserole.
- Pour half of the beef and vegetable mixture over the tortilla chips, spreading it evenly to cover them.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the beef mixture. This will add a delicious cheesy layer to your casserole.
- Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining tortilla chips, followed by the rest of the beef mixture, and finally topping it off with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve.
- Before serving, garnish the casserole with chopped cilantro for a fresh flavor and appealing presentation.
- Serve the taco casserole warm, and enjoy it with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or sliced jalapeños if desired.
Tips
- Drain the Ground Beef Thoroughly: Removing excess fat ensures your casserole isn't greasy and maintains a perfect texture.
- Customize Your Seasoning: While the taco seasoning packet works great, feel free to add extra spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for a more complex flavor profile.
- Crispy Chip Hack: For extra crunch, consider using slightly crushed tortilla chips to create more texture throughout the casserole.
- Cheese Matters: Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and monterey jack for a more complex cheese flavor.
- Make It Your Own: This recipe is incredibly versatile. Try adding diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Prep Ahead: You can assemble this casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate, then bake when you're ready to eat – perfect for busy families!
- Serving Suggestions: Top with fresh garnishes like diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, or additional cilantro to brighten up the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
