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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Step 3: In a baking dish, layer half of the tortillas or tortilla chips evenly on the bottom.
4. Step 4: Spread the seasoned beef over the tortilla layer, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
5. Step 5: Add the remaining tortillas or chips as the next layer, followed by the rest of the cheese.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. 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.

Beef Taco Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 79 reviews

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.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. 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