Description
The Ultimate Taco Casserole is a bold, satisfying dish that captures all the best flavors of taco night in one easy-to-serve, crowd-pleasing bake. With layers of seasoned beef, melted cheese, zesty salsa, and crisp tortilla chips, this casserole is a guaranteed hit for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings. It’s quick to prepare, highly customizable, and perfect for feeding a hungry group. Add your favorite fresh toppings for a burst of flavor and texture, making every bite a fiesta.
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1 ½ cups crushed tortilla chips or tortillas
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
- ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced or sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add Seasoning and Vegetables: Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and corn. Reduce heat and let simmer for 3-5 minutes. Mix in the sour cream or cream cheese if using.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips in the prepared dish. Spoon the beef mixture over the chips, then pour the salsa evenly on top. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the entire surface.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, black olives, avocado, chopped cilantro, and jalapeños. Serve with lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes