Description
Mexican-inspired easy taco casserole delights families with layers of savory ground beef, crisp tortillas, and melted cheese. Hearty comfort combines zesty spices and creamy textures for a satisfying meal you will devour in minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
Main Ingredients:
- 1 packet (1 ounce/28 grams) taco seasoning
- 1 bag (10 ounces/283 grams) tortilla chips
- 2 cups (226 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) refried beans
Toppings and Extras:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) salsa
- 1/2 cup (75 grams) black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup (25 grams) green onions, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 350F (175C) to create the perfect environment for a bubbling, savory casserole.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet, incorporating taco seasoning to infuse rich, zesty flavors throughout the meat.
- Create a foundation in the casserole dish with a crisp layer of crushed tortilla chips, establishing a crunchy base.
- Spread a smooth layer of refried beans over the tortilla chips, adding creamy texture and depth to the dish.
- Distribute the seasoned ground beef evenly across the bean layer, ensuring a consistent meaty component.
- Drizzle salsa over the beef, introducing a tangy and vibrant element to the casserole.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese to cover the entire surface, creating a melty, golden blanket.
- If desired, repeat the layering process for a more complex flavor profile, finishing with an extra cheese topping.
- Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts and edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onions and sliced olives for a fresh, colorful finish.
- Serve immediately with a dollop of cool sour cream on the side to balance the warm, spicy flavors.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and make the dish healthier.
- Swap ground beef with black beans or shredded chicken for vegetarian or lighter protein options.
- Use low-sodium taco seasoning to control salt intake and enhance overall flavor balance.
- Prep ingredients beforehand to create a quick and stress-free weeknight meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg