This Taco Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining all the bold flavors of tacos into a hearty, cheesy, and comforting baked dish. With layers of seasoned ground beef, salsa, beans, and crispy tortilla chips, it’s the perfect dinner for taco night or a potluck hit.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The flavorful protein base.
- 2 cups salsa: Choose mild, medium, or hot depending on your spice preference.
- 1 (16-ounce) can chili beans, drained: Adds a hearty and slightly spicy texture.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (optional): For extra taco flavor.
For the Layers:
- 3 cups tortilla chips, crushed: For a crunchy layer that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 2 cups sour cream: Adds a creamy tangy layer.
- 1 (2-ounce) can sliced black olives, drained: A salty, savory topping.
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend): Melts to gooey perfection.
- Chopped green onions (optional): For a fresh garnish.
- Diced tomatoes or avocado slices (optional): For a fresh and vibrant topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the salsa, chili beans, and taco seasoning (if using). Cook for another 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the beef mixture over the chips, spreading it out evenly.
- Spread the sour cream over the beef mixture in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the black olives on top, followed by the remaining tortilla chips.
4. Add the Cheese
- Top the casserole with the shredded cheese, covering it completely.
5. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of Spanish rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
- Serve with extra toppings like guacamole, salsa, or hot sauce for customization.
- A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette makes a great accompaniment.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
- Freezing Option: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Tips for Success
- Customizable Heat Level: Use spicy salsa or add diced jalapeños for a kick, or stick with mild ingredients for a kid-friendly version.
- Layer Evenly: Spread each layer uniformly for the best flavor and texture in every bite.
- Tortilla Chips Tip: Add some extra crushed tortilla chips on top after baking for an even crunchier texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients come together for a flavorful one-dish meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite taco toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
This Taco Casserole is a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish that turns taco night into an irresistible baked masterpiece. Enjoy! 🌮✨
