Taco Casserole

Let’s Talk Taco Casserole!

Taco casserole has become a beloved dish in many households, and for good reason! It’s a comforting blend of familiar taco flavors baked into a neat, easy-to-serve casserole. I remember the first time I made it for my family on a busy weeknight; it was a game changer. Everyone loved it, and it became a staple in my meal rotation. This blend of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and soft tortillas makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s not just easy to prepare but also budget-friendly!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that the whole family will devour, this taco casserole is the answer. It’s a hassle-free recipe that requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when spirited cooking enthusiasm is at an all-time low. Plus, the layers of flavors and textures make every bite satisfying and hearty, so you can count on it keeping everyone feeling full and happy.

“This taco casserole is a family favorite! It’s like having taco night in a single dish, and my kids love decorating it with their favorite toppings!” – A Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Overview

Creating a taco casserole might sound elaborate, but trust me, it’s one of the easiest meals you’ll make. Picture this: you begin by browning the ground beef, layering tortillas, and introducing a delectable mix of taco-inspired ingredients. Before you know it, you have a mouthwatering casserole ready to pop into the oven. Let’s dive into the details!

Key Ingredients

Gather these items to create your flavorful taco casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chilies
• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 12 flour tortillas (6-inch size)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Note: If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can easily replace the beef, and low-fat cream cheese works well for a lighter version!

Directions to Follow

1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add onion: Incorporate the chopped onion with the beef. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Mix in seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato sauce, mixing until well combined.
4. Simmer: Lower the heat and simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add beans, corn, and chilies: Incorporate the black beans, corn, and green chilies. Mix thoroughly and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Prepare the creamy layer: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
7. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Layer tortillas: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer the bottom with tortillas, cutting them if necessary to fit.
9. Add layers: Spread half of the meat mixture over the tortillas, then half of the cream cheese mixture, followed by half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers.
10. Bake it: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden.
11. Let it rest: Allow to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
12. Serve it up: Slice into squares and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, and extra sour cream as desired.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This taco casserole shines on its own; however, it pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a crisp garden salad. If you want to add a little crunch, consider serving some tortilla chips on the side for scooping. Don’t forget the toppings station! Create a spread where everyone can pile their favorites onto their servings.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be a lifesaver for busy days ahead! Store any uneaten taco casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions—just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When reheating, simply pop it back in the oven until warmed through or microwave it on a safe dish.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Don’t rush the simmering: Letting the mixture simmer allows the flavors to blend beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
• Play with layers: Feel free to get creative with the layers! Add sliced olives or substitute other beans for a twist.
• Consider spice levels: If you enjoy a kick, consider using spicy taco seasoning or adding a dash of hot sauce into the mix.

Creative Twists

The beauty of taco casserole lies in its versatility. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the beef for extra beans or sautéed veggies. Looking for a different flavor profile? Try BBQ sauce instead of tomato for a smoky taste! And of course, switch up the cheese or toppings based on your flavor preferences.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare and cook?
Expect around 15-20 minutes for prep and about 35-40 minutes for cooking.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Taco casserole freezes well, so you can enjoy it later. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped!

What are some good side dishes?
Pair it with Spanish rice or a refreshing avocado salad for a delightful balance!

Now that you have all the details, you’re ready to make this delectable taco casserole for your next weeknight dinner. Enjoy!

Taco Casserole

A comforting dish blending seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and layers of tortillas, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the beef mixture

• 1 pound ground beef You can use ground turkey or chicken as alternatives.
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 packet taco seasoning Consider spicy seasoning for an extra kick.
• 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 15-ounce can corn, drained
• 1 4-ounce can chopped green chilies

For the creamy layer and toppings

• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Low-fat cream cheese can be used for a lighter version.

For layering

• 12 pieces flour tortillas (6-inch size) Cut to fit the baking dish if needed.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to switch the cheese based on your preferences.

Method

 

Cooking the beef

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
2. Incorporate the chopped onion with the beef. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato sauce, mixing until well combined.
4. Lower the heat and simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Incorporate the black beans, corn, and green chilies. Mix thoroughly and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Preparing the creamy layer and baking

1. In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer the bottom with tortillas.
4. Spread half of the meat mixture over the tortillas, then half of the cream cheese mixture, followed by half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden.
6. Allow to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting and serving.

Serving

1. Slice into squares and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, and extra sour cream as desired.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions. Reheat in the oven or microwave.