Easy Taco Casserole
A heartwarming family favorite, this Easy Taco Casserole is a quick and delicious meal that blends savory flavors of ground beef, cheese, and zesty toppings for a comforting dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef The traditional protein; substitute with ground turkey or lentils for a lighter option.
- 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed) Adds fiber and texture; kidney beans can be used as a substitute.
- 1 can corn (drained) Sweet and crunchy; frozen corn is an excellent substitute.
- 1 packet taco seasoning Homemade seasoning can be used for a personal touch.
- 2 cups tortilla chips (roughly crushed) Corn chips can be used for a gluten-free option.
- 2 cups shredded cheese Cheddar or Monterey Jack works well; use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
- 1 cup salsa Fresh salsa adds brightness but jarred salsa works too.
- to taste sour cream or Greek yogurt For serving, adds creaminess.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef.
- Once browned, drain off any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and roughly half of the salsa. Stir together for about 5 minutes.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips.
- Spoon half of the beef mixture on top, followed by a generous sprinkle of cheese. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and golden brown.
Serving
- Serve hot, topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt, and diced jalapeños or avocado for an extra kick.
Notes
Customize the casserole with fresh ingredients and vegetables. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.