Taco Casserole Layered Ground Beef
Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
Taco Casserole Layered Ground Beef is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of tacos in a comforting casserole format. Perfect for a family dinner or gathering!
This Taco Casserole takes the best elements of a classic taco and transforms them into a layered casserole that's sure to please the crowd. With seasoned ground beef, cheese, and fresh toppings, it's an easy weeknight meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory seasoned beef layered with melty cheese.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings.
A Flavorful Twist on Tacos
Taco Casserole Layered Ground Beef brings the vibrant flavors of your favorite tacos into a delicious, layered casserole that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The combination of seasoned ground beef, black beans, and sweet corn creates a flavorful base that pairs beautifully with the crunch of tortilla chips and the creamy texture of melted cheese.
This casserole not only captures the essence of traditional tacos but also enhances it with the convenience of a one-dish meal. The layers of taste and texture ensure that every bite is a delightful surprise, making it an instant favorite for taco lovers and casserole enthusiasts alike.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you are hosting a family dinner, planning a game day feast, or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this taco casserole is a versatile choice. Its hearty nature satisfies even the hungriest of appetites, and it can easily feed a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
You can also prepare this dish in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your guests or family. Just assemble the casserole ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat. The result is a warm, comforting meal that everyone will love.
Customizable for Everyone
One of the best features of Taco Casserole Layered Ground Beef is its adaptability. You can easily swap ingredients to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, consider substituting ground beef with lentils or additional beans, while still maintaining that satisfying texture and flavor.
Feel free to get creative with toppings too! Add jalapeños for a spicy kick, or consider garnishing with avocado slices or fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. This flexibility means that everyone at the table can enjoy their own personalized version of this taco casserole.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups tortilla chips, crushed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Gather all the ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa.
Layer the Casserole
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture over the chips, followed by half of the cheese. Repeat the layers.
Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, add the remaining cheese, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Top with sour cream, diced tomatoes, olives, and green onions before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Taco Casserole with your favorite toppings!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Taco Casserole turns out perfectly, it's important to brown the ground beef thoroughly. This step not only enhances the flavor but also prevents a greasy casserole. Don't rush this step; allow the beef to develop a nice color before adding the seasoning.
If you want to elevate the flavors even further, consider adding a splash of lime juice to the beef mixture. This little addition can brighten the dish and give it that authentic taco taste that everyone craves.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Taco Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It makes for a great lunch option or a quick dinner on busy nights. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
If you want to freeze this dish, assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed for a comforting meal any time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier version.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.
→ What other toppings do you recommend?
Some great toppings include avocado, cilantro, or hot sauce for added flavor.
Taco Casserole Layered Ground Beef
Taco Casserole Layered Ground Beef is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of tacos in a comforting casserole format. Perfect for a family dinner or gathering!
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups tortilla chips, crushed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture over the chips, followed by half of the cheese. Repeat the layers.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, add the remaining cheese, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Top with sour cream, diced tomatoes, olives, and green onions before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g