Taco casserole is one of those easy, crowd-pleasing meals that feels like a big, cozy taco night in one dish 🌮🧀
Here’s a classic, cheesy taco casserole that’s simple and delicious.
🌮 Taco Casserole (serves 6–8)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1 cup water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (or Rotel)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar (or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 bag tortilla chips, crushed (or use taco shells)
- Optional toppings: green onions, olives, jalapeños, avocado, cilantro
Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the meat
Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
2️⃣ Add seasoning
Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer 3–5 minutes.
3️⃣ Mix the base
In a large bowl, combine:
- cooked meat
- black beans
- corn
- diced tomatoes
- salsa
4️⃣ Layer the casserole
In a greased 9×13 dish:
- Spread half the meat mixture
- Add a layer of crushed chips
- Add dollops of sour cream
- Sprinkle half the cheese
- Repeat layers
- Finish with remaining cheese on top
5️⃣ Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and cheese is melted.
6️⃣ Serve
Top with your favorite toppings.
🌶️ Variations
- Taco pasta casserole: use cooked pasta instead of chips
- Low-carb: skip chips, add cauliflower rice
- Chicken taco casserole: use shredded rotisserie chicken
- Spicy: add jalapeños or hot sauce