Introduction
If you’re looking for a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, look no further than this Taco Bake Casserole! With layers of seasoned ground beef, hearty black beans, and melting cheddar cheese, this casserole is a delicious twist on a classic taco night favorite. It’s a quick and easy recipe that packs in all the vibrant flavors of tacos, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you take the first bite, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup salsa
- 6 flour tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s beautifully browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a lighter dish.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and let it cook according to the package instructions, allowing those rich spices to infuse the meat.
- Add the drained black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa to the beef mixture. Stir everything together until well combined.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef mixture evenly over the bottom.
- Layer half of the tortilla quarters over the beef mixture, creating a delicious base for your casserole.
- Top the tortillas with half of the remaining beef mixture, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Let those flavors mingle!
- Repeat the layering with the remaining tortilla quarters, the rest of the beef mixture, and finish off with a generous sprinkle of cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. You want to see that cheese bubbly and golden brown!
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set before diving in.
- Serve your Taco Bake hot, topped with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions and fresh cilantro, if desired.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize your Taco Bake! You can add ingredients such as diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick or swap out the beef for turkey or a vegetarian option like lentils. This dish is incredibly forgiving and a great way to use up leftover veggies from your fridge!
Cooking Techniques
This casserole employs simple layering techniques to build flavor and texture. Browning the beef not only enhances its flavor but also imparts a lovely color that adds visual appeal to the dish. Layering the ingredients allows for even cooking and ensures that every bite is packed with deliciousness!
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Taco Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly before baking and freeze for up to three months. To cook, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
Conclusion
This Taco Bake Casserole is not only a hearty and flavorful dish but also a delightful way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. Its layers of vibrant ingredients create a comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. So, gather your loved ones, serve it up, and savor every bite of this taco-inspired goodness!