cheesy taco casserole recipe

Get ready to indulge in a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the best of Mexican and American cuisine. Introducing Cheesy Taco Casserole, a mouthwatering recipe that layers seasoned ground beef, crispy tortillas, and a blend of creamy cheeses to create a truly unforgettable meal.

prep time: 15 minutes

cook time: 25 minutes

total time: 40 minutes

servings: 4-6

ingredients:

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 cup salsa
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 bag tortilla chips (about 8-10 oz)
1/4 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

instructions:

1. prepare the taco mixture:

preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). in a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. drain any excess fat. stir in taco seasoning and salsa, cooking for 2-3 minutes.

2. assemble the casserole:

in a baking dish, layer tortilla chips on the bottom. spread the taco mixture evenly over the chips. add black beans, corn, and half of the shredded cheese.

3. bake:

sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. garnish and serve:

top the casserole with sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, green bell pepper, sour cream, and chopped cilantro. serve warm with extra tortilla chips if desired.

Tips:

1. Use high-quality ground beef: Choose a lean and flavorful ground beef for the best results.
2. Don’t overcook the tortillas: Cook the tortillas until they’re crispy and golden, but still slightly pliable.
3. Add some heat with jalapenos: Dice up some jalapenos and add them to the casserole for an extra kick of heat.
4. Experiment with different cheeses: Try using different types of cheese, such as Pepper Jack or Colby, to add a unique flavor to the casserole.
5. Make it a meal prep: Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for a quick and easy meal.