Easy Taco Casserole Recipe the Whole Family Will Love
This Easy Taco Casserole holds a special place in my heart, as it brings back memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. Growing up, my mom would whip up this dish on busy weeknights, and it quickly became a staple in our household. The aroma of seasoned beef and melted cheese wafting through the kitchen was enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Now, I love sharing this recipe with my own family, creating new memories around the dinner table.
What Makes It Special
There are several reasons why this Taco Casserole stands out:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one dish, making cleanup a breeze!
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, flavorful layers are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups tortilla chips, crushed
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
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Add the black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and salsa to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.
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In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom.
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Spread half of the beef mixture over the chips, followed by a layer of cheese.
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Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with sour cream and green onions if desired.
My Pro Tips
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For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
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Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
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Make it vegetarian by using lentils or additional beans instead of meat.
What to Serve With It
- Fresh guacamole
- Mexican rice
- Simple green salad with lime vinaigrette
- Chilled margaritas or iced tea
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
The Heart of the Dish
This Easy Taco Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring family together. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to create smiles and spark conversations. I love how it combines flavors and textures, making every bite a delightful experience. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine!
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn to try this Easy Taco Casserole! I encourage you to make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or spices. Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you made. Happy cooking!
Easy Taco Casserole Recipe the Whole Family Will Love
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 3 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Fresh guacamole, for serving
- Simple green salad with lime vinaigrette, for serving
- Chilled margaritas or iced tea, for serving
- Sour cream, for topping (optional)
- Green onions, chopped, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and salsa to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom.
- Spread half of the beef mixture over the chips, followed by a layer of cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with sour cream and green onions if desired.
Nutrition Information
