This Taco Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, turning the bold flavors of tacos into a cheesy, hearty, and satisfying baked dish. With layers of seasoned ground beef, salsa, beans, and crispy tortilla chips, it’s perfect for taco night or any potluck gathering. It’s easy to make and sure to please a crowd!
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 hearty texture and a bit of spice.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (optional) – For extra taco flavor.
For the Layers:
- 3 cups tortilla chips, crushed – 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 – For a savory topping.
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend) – Melts perfectly to top the casserole.
- 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 (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 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 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 the perfect way to turn taco night into an irresistible, cheesy, and comforting baked masterpiece. Enjoy!