Taco Casserole

Taco Casserole Recipe

Taco casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the best of tacos and casseroles into one hearty meal. Perfect for feeding a crowd or a family, this recipe is easy to make and customizable based on your preferences. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a flavorful taco casserole that serves approximately 6-8 people.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef: You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a robust base flavor.
• 1 packet taco seasoning: For convenience, or make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne.
• 1 cup salsa: Adds tanginess and moisture.
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and texture.
• 1 cup corn kernels: Fresh, frozen, or canned.
• 1 cup diced tomatoes: Use fresh or canned, depending on availability.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and provides a rich flavor.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess.
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips: For topping, adds a crunchy texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the beef.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
4. Season and Add Ingredients: Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring the beef is well-coated. Add the salsa, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Prepare the Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the dish.
6. Add Cheese and Sour Cream: Drop spoonfuls of sour cream over the beef mixture and spread it out gently. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Add Crushed Chips: Sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips over the cheese layer. This will give a nice crunchy texture once baked.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.
9. Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
10. Optional Garnishes: Top with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of additional sour cream if desired.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with extra beans or a meat substitute.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicy salsa.
• Toppings: Customize with your favorite taco toppings like shredded lettuce, diced avocado, or chopped tomatoes.

Taco casserole is a versatile and family-friendly dish that can be enjoyed on busy weeknights or at casual gatherings. With its layers of seasoned beef, cheese, and crunchy chips, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy!