Taco casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending the bold flavors of tacos into a hearty, oven-baked dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this recipe layers seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, melty cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips. Serve it as-is or deck it out with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make, this is it!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips or taco shells
For Toppings (Optional):
- Chopped lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced black olives
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Fresh cilantro
Preparation
Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook the Meat
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix in Taco Casserole seasoning and salsa, cooking until fully combined.
Layer the Casserole
- Spread the refried beans evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the seasoned beef mixture on top.
- Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies (and black beans if using) as the next layer.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese over the layers.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips and the remaining cheese.
Bake
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Add your favorite toppings before serving.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of cooked lentils, diced mushrooms, or crumbled tofu.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the tortilla chips and use thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower rice as a base layer.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning for extra heat.
- Make It Breakfast-Style: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a morning twist.
Cooking Note
For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. Watch closely to avoid burning the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of Spanish rice or Mexican street corn for a complete meal.
- Serve with warm flour or corn tortillas for a taco-bar-style dinner.
Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
- Customizable Toppings: Let your family or guests add their favorite toppings to make it personal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.
Timing Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 35g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a smoky gouda all work beautifully.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
How do I make it healthier?
Use ground turkey, low-fat cheese, and skip the tortilla chips for a lighter version.
Conclusion
The best taco casserole combines the comforting elements of a classic casserole with the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine. Easy to customize and loaded with layers of goodness, it’s a hit for family dinners, potlucks, or game days. Try it tonight and bring the fiesta to your table!