Description
Mexican-inspired cheesy taco casserole delivers hearty comfort on a plate with layers of ground beef, tortillas, and melted cheese. Spicy flavors and simple preparation make this dish perfect for family dinners you’ll want to savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
Cheese and Dairy:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup salsa
- 6 small flour tortillas, torn into pieces
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 350F (175C) to prepare for baking.
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until thoroughly browned, carefully draining any excess grease.
- Enhance the beef with taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa, mixing thoroughly to create a robust flavor profile.
- Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing the surface, then create the first layer using torn tortillas across the bottom.
- Distribute half of the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the tortilla base, followed by a uniform layer of black beans.
- Generously sprinkle a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef and bean layer.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining tortillas, creating a second tier of beef mixture and completing the cheese coverage.
- Transfer the assembled casserole to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbly texture.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, then garnish with optional toppings like sour cream, sliced olives, and chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- Customize spice levels by adjusting taco seasoning or choosing mild/hot salsa for different heat preferences.
- Replace ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version.
- Drain beans and tomatoes thoroughly to prevent excess liquid and ensure a perfectly structured casserole.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, ensuring they’re crisp and well-layered for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 515 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg