Cheesy Taco Casserole
🕒 Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
🔥 Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 6–8
💡 Crowd-pleaser & meal-prep friendly
🛒 Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) – drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 2 cups tortilla chips or crushed taco shells
- 1/2 cup salsa or taco sauce
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced avocado or guacamole
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped cilantroGreen onions
🧑🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
Stir in taco seasoning, Rotel, beans, corn, and salsa.
Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
3. Layer the Casserole
Spread crushed tortilla chips or taco shells evenly in the bottom of the dish.
Spoon the beef mixture over the chips.
Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
4. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted and golden.
5. Top & Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes.
Add your favorite toppings (sour cream, lettuce, avocado, etc.).
Scoop and serve like a taco bake — great with a side of rice or a crisp salad.
🔄 Variations:
Low-carb: Replace chips with a layer of sautéed zucchini or cauliflower rice.
Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Vegetarian: Use black beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles instead of meat.
Creamy version: Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese into the beef mixture before baking.