Taco Casserole: A Flavor-Packed, Crowd-Pleasing Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines all the best flavors of a taco in a convenient, one-pan meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping. This casserole layers seasoned ground beef, cheese, tortillas, and classic taco toppings for a satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 6 small flour or corn tortillas, cut into quarters
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced green onions
• Diced avocado
• Jalapeños
• Sour cream
• Salsa

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a light coat of oil.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
5. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce. Let simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Layer tortilla quarters over the beef mixture.
3. Spread half of the sour cream evenly over the tortillas.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the top.
5. Repeat the layers: beef mixture, tortillas, sour cream, and the remaining cheese.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve warm.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use hot enchilada sauce.
• Low-Carb: Substitute tortillas with thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower rice.
• Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for extra beans, lentils, or a meat substitute.
• Chicken Taco Casserole: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, corn tortillas add a slightly different texture and flavor, making the dish more authentic.

What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?

You can substitute enchilada sauce with salsa or tomato sauce with added seasonings like chili powder, cumin, and garlic.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free tortillas and taco seasoning.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and replace sour cream with a dairy-free alternative.

What’s the best way to prevent a soggy casserole?

Ensure you drain the diced tomatoes and beans well, and don’t use too much enchilada sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe.

How do I add more vegetables?

Mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Can I make this casserole spicy?

Yes! Add diced jalapeños, use spicy taco seasoning, or choose hot enchilada sauce.

What should I serve with taco casserole?

Serve with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or chips and guacamole.

Conclusion

Taco casserole is a delicious, hearty meal that combines the best parts of tacos into a cheesy, baked dish. It’s easy to customize, perfect for meal prep, and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Try it out and enjoy a flavorful, fuss-free dinner!

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