Print

Mexican Taco Casserole Bake

Mexican Taco Casserole Bake
Print Recipe

This Mexican Taco Casserole Bake is a hearty and comforting layered dish combining seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, and vibrant salsa. Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, offering bold, zesty Mexican flavors in an easy, crowd-pleasing casserole.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 cup salsa (fresh or jarred)
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (divided)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 cup black beans (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped green chilies (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
  • Sour cream (optional for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Beef and Onions: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat, then sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the mixture. Stir in the salsa and optional green chilies, allowing it to simmer gently for 5 minutes.
  2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: While the beef mixture simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
  3. Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the chips, followed by a sprinkling of black beans if using. Add a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, then repeat the layers once more with the remaining chips, beef mixture, black beans, and cheese.
  4. Bake Until Bubbly: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly around the edges.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, salsa, and herbs elevate the casserole’s flavor significantly.
  • Don’t Overmix: When layering, keep tortilla chips mostly intact to maintain crunch.
  • Customize the Heat: Adjust taco seasoning spice or add fresh jalapeños to suit your heat preference.
  • Cheese Timing: Use half the cheese between layers and half on top for melty inside and crispy crust.
  • Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking for easier slicing and better flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco casserole, Mexican bake, ground beef casserole, cheesy casserole, quick dinner, easy family meal, gluten free taco bake

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/mexican-taco-casserole-bake/