Description
This taco casserole features layers of tortillas, seasoned ground beef, beans, and melted cheese, baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for taco night!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, and corn (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place 2-3 tortillas over the salsa, overlapping as needed to cover the bottom.
- Spread half of the meat mixture over the tortillas.
- Dollop with sour cream if using, then sprinkle with 1/3 of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers (tortillas, meat mixture, cheese) one more time.
- Top with the remaining tortillas, spread salsa over them, and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with your favorite toppings, like guacamole, extra salsa, or jalapeños.
Notes
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Customizable: Swap black beans for pinto beans, add rice, or include sautéed bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.