Cheesy Taco Casserole

📋 Description:

Cheesy Taco Casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed dish layered with seasoned ground beef, beans, salsa, and gooey cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting Tex-Mex meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This one-pan wonder delivers all the bold taco flavors in a cozy, cheesy, fork-ready format.

🍽️ Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1 cup salsa

• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

• 1 bag (about 4 cups) tortilla chips or crushed nacho chips

• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, green onions, sour cream, jalapeños, avocado, cilantro

🔧 Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

3. Season: Add taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water to the beef. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

4. Mix In Fillings: Stir in beans, corn, and salsa. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.

5. Layer Casserole: In a greased 9×13 baking dish, spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips. Spoon half the beef mixture over it. Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese. Repeat layers: chips, beef, and remaining cheese.

6. Bake: Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. Serve: Top with your favorite taco toppings and enjoy hot!

📝 Notes:

• You can substitute chips with flour tortillas for a softer texture.

• Add sautéed onions and bell peppers for extra flavor and veggies.

• Use rotisserie chicken as a quicker alternative to ground meat.

💡 Tips:

• For spicier flavor, add hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.

• Crush chips just before using so they stay crisp.

• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

🍽️ Servings:

• Makes: 6 servings

• Serving Size: ~1.5 cups

🧾 Nutritional Info (Per Serving) (estimated):

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 23g

• Carbohydrates: 32g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sodium: 720mg

• Sugar: 4g

🌟 Benefits:

• Quick & Easy: Minimal prep with pantry staples.

• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

• Customizable: Adapt to your taste with different meats, cheeses, or veggies.

• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble in advance and bake when ready.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Swap the meat with more beans, lentils, or meatless crumbles.

Q: Can I use low-fat cheese or skip the chips?
A: Yes, use reduced-fat cheese or omit chips and use a veggie base like zucchini slices.

Q: Will it get soggy if made ahead?
A: For best texture, assemble ahead but add chips and cheese just before baking.

Q: What’s a good side dish?
A: Serve with a fresh green salad, guacamole, or Mexican rice.