Tacos in a casserole? Oh, it’s like a fiesta in a pan! Imagine the sizzle of beef, the zing of salsa, all cozied up under a blanket of cheese—it’s pure culinary magic. I swear, it’s like your favorite taco truck decided to take a nap in your oven, and the result is something everyone around the table will rave about.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, stirring frequently, until it is fully cooked and crumbly, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add salsa to the cooked beef, lower the heat, and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed, roughly 20 minutes. Mix in the beans and continue cooking until they are heated through.
- Evenly distribute crushed tortilla chips on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the beef and bean mixture over the chips, then spread a layer of sour cream on top.
- Sprinkle olives, green onions, and tomatoes over the sour cream layer, and cover everything with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake until it is hot and bubbly, about 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, serve, and enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- Salsa (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can of chili beans
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Sour cream
- 1 can of black olives
- Green onions
- 1 fresh tomato
- Shredded Cheddar cheese
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of meat in this taco casserole recipe?
- Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or even shredded chicken for a lighter option or a different taste.
- Is it possible to add extra flavor to the casserole?
- Certainly! Many people enjoy adding a packet of taco seasoning to the meat while it cooks. You can also include a can of chopped green chiles for an extra kick.
- How should I store leftover taco casserole?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Can this casserole be frozen for later use?
- Yes, it freezes well. If you plan to freeze it, bake it in a foil pan, then wrap it tightly with storage wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
- What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Mexican casserole?
- This dish is quite hearty on its own, but if you want to add sides, consider serving it with Cilantro Lime Rice or Elote. For drinks, a Classic Margarita pairs nicely.
Tips
- Enhance Flavor with Taco Seasoning: For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a packet of taco seasoning into the meat while cooking. This simple addition can elevate the taste profile significantly.
- Opt for Versatile Protein Options: While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey for a lighter option or even shredded chicken for a different texture and flavor.
- Plan for Freezing: If you want to prepare the casserole in advance, consider using a disposable foil pan for baking. Once cooked, wrap it tightly with storage wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Many reviewers have successfully modified the recipe by adding ingredients such as chopped green chiles or substituting corn for beans. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish – If you don’t already have a suitable baking dish, you might consider purchasing one.
- Large Skillet – If you don’t have a large enough skillet for browning the ground beef and cooking the mixture, this is something you might need.
- Cooking Spray – While often available at home, if not, a non-stick cooking spray might be a necessary purchase.
