Beef Taco Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Beef Taco Casserole is a simple, flavorful dish that combines seasoned ground beef with melted cheese and crispy tortillas or chips. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 6-8 tortillas or 3 cups tortilla chips
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 2: Add the taco seasoning to the beef along with the amount of water called for on the seasoning packet. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 3: In a baking dish, layer half of the tortillas or tortilla chips evenly on the bottom.
- Step 4: Spread the seasoned beef over the tortilla layer, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
- Step 5: Add the remaining tortillas or chips as the next layer, followed by the rest of the cheese.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 7: Remove from oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add diced onions or bell peppers when cooking the ground beef.
- Try using corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, or substitute with your favorite tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for more texture and nutrition.
- Top with fresh salsa, sour cream, or sliced avocado before serving.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead or the night before. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can substitute with a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and salt to season the beef to taste.
PrintBeef Taco Casserole Recipe
This Beef Taco Casserole is a hearty and flavorful layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas or chips baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, this casserole combines the savory zest of taco seasoning with gooey cheese and crunchy layers for a comforting Tex-Mex experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6–8 flour tortillas or 3 cups tortilla chips
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Season the beef: Add the taco seasoning mix and 1/2 cup water to the cooked beef. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Layer the casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, place a layer of tortillas or tortilla chips, spread half of the seasoned beef over them, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with remaining tortillas/chips, beef, and cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with optional toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Notes
- Use corn tortillas or chips for a gluten-free version.
- For extra flavor, add diced onions or bell peppers to the beef mixture while cooking.
- Top with fresh cilantro or jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: beef taco casserole, taco casserole, baked taco dish, ground beef casserole, Tex-Mex casserole
