Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ¼ cup water
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Layers:
- 3 cups crushed tortilla chips (or flour tortillas for a softer base)
- 1 ½ cups Mexican blend cheese
Optional Toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped cilantro
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Taco Meat
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add diced onion and cook for another 2 minutes until softened.
- Drain any excess grease, then stir in taco seasoning and ¼ cup water. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add black beans, corn, Rotel, and salsa, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom.
- Spoon half of the taco meat mixture over the chips.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the meat.
- Repeat the layers: another layer of crushed chips, then the rest of the taco meat, followed by the remaining cheese.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Add the Toppings & Serve
- Sprinkle with diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, and green onions.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top.
- Enjoy warm with extra tortilla chips on the side!
Notes
How to Serve Taco Casserole
✔ As a Main Dish – Serve with a simple side salad or Spanish rice.
✔ In a Tortilla – Scoop some into a soft tortilla for a delicious taco wrap.
✔ With Nachos – Serve over tortilla chips for an extra-crunchy taco nacho plate.
✔ As Meal Prep – Pack into individual containers for easy lunches