Tasty Taco Casserole

Tasty Taco Casserole

8 servings
We've taken all your favorite taco flavors and made a tasty casserole! Easy to throw together and feeds a crowd.

Ingredients

  • salted butter
    2 tbsp
  • white onion

    diced

    1 medium
  • ground beef

    80/20 or leaner

    1 ½ lb
  • diced green chiles
    7 oz
  • ground cumin
    1 tbsp
  • salt
    2 tsp
  • chili powder
    2 tsp
  • garlic powder
    2 tsp
  • corn tortillas
    12
  • olive oil

    divided

    2 tbsp
  • can black beans

    rinsed and drained

    14.5 oz
  • salsa

    divided

    2 c
  • corn kernels

    optional

    2 c
  • shredded cheddar cheese

    divided

    3 c
  • Cilantro

    chopped

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  2. 2

    Sauté onion in 2 T. butter until soft.

  3. 3

    Add ground beef, diced green chiles, ground cumin, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat.

  4. 4

    In a medium skillet over medium heat, add 1/4 to olive Sauté corn tortillas in oil one at a time, about 1 minute per side, adding more oil as needed. Once browned, cut each tortilla in half.

  5. 5

    Arrange half of the tortilla halves in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Spread half of the ground beef mixture over the cheese.

  6. 6

    Evenly layer drained beans over the beef. Spoon half of the salsa over the beans. Arrange remaining tortilla halves on top.

  7. 7

    Spread remaining ground beef mixture over the tortillas. Spoon corn kernels evenly on top, followed by the remaining salsa. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheddar cheese.

  8. 8

    Bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

  9. 9

    Let cool slightly before serving. Add toppings as desired. Serve with corn chips and lettuce.

Tasty Taco Casserole

Tasty Taco Casserole

50 min8 servings669 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving the vibrant, savory flavors of tacos but in a comforting, easy-to-manage format? This Tasty Taco Casserole is your answer, bringing all your favorite elements to the table in one satisfying dish that feeds a crowd.

Why This Recipe Works

The genius of this taco casserole lies in its harmonious blend of classic ingredients. You'll find a robust, seasoned ground beef base enriched with zesty diced green chiles and a fragrant mix of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Layered with sturdy corn tortillas, hearty black beans, and generous amounts of melty cheddar, it’s a symphony of textures and tastes designed for maximum enjoyment with minimal fuss.

What to Expect

Prepare for a rich, deeply savory experience with every forkful. The tender ground beef, infused with aromatic spices and a gentle kick from the green chiles, is perfectly complemented by the earthy black beans and the sweetness of optional corn kernels. You’ll love the comforting chew of the corn tortillas softened by the salsa and the irresistible pull of gooey, melted cheddar cheese throughout. This is a hearty main dish, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, delivering robust flavor without being overly challenging to prepare.

Customization & Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile! You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten things up, or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and nutrients. For a different cheese profile, consider Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend. Don't want corn tortillas? While integral to the casserole's structure, you could experiment with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy topping if you're looking for an alternative.

Serving & Context

This casserole is an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a dependable, delicious meal, or for feeding a hungry crowd at a potluck or game day gathering. Garnish generously with fresh, chopped cilantro just before serving to add a bright, herbaceous finish that truly elevates the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions