Looking for more simple Mexican inspired dinner recipes? Then try this Fiery Shrimp Diablo, Three Cheese Mexican Stuffed Shells, or Mexican Quinoa Stuffed Peppers.
Taco Casserole
When you need a quick and delicious dinner, a taco casserole is an ultimate meal to feed a hungry crowd. I use my homemade taco seasoning recipe to instantly flavor the ground beef. Each bite delivers bold spices with a Mexican twist. Casseroles are great for layering textures and toppings. Tortilla chips are added on top of the beef mixture, plus some melted cheese to create a crunchy, savory crust. Spicy food lovers can chop up your favorite peppers or drizzle on hot salsa. Any add-ons you can dream up would pair perfectly with this sharable feast.
How do you make taco casserole?
In a large nonstick skillet, saute onions and bell peppers. Add the meat and cook beef until browned. Stir in the taco seasoning and flour, cook for 1 minute. Add the water and cook until the beef mixture is slightly thickened. Stir in the corn and black beans. Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Top the beef with tortilla chips and cheese, bake at 375ºF until the cheese is melted. To serve, add desired toppings on top of the taco casserole.
What seasonings do you add to the beef?
To add bold savory flavor to the neutral ground beef, a combination of spices and dried herbs are used. Use smoked paprika, salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder for a mild heat. For a spicier taste, add in chopped jalapeno peppers, or cayenne pepper powder.
What kind of chips and cheese can be added?
The gently crushed tortilla chips add that characteristic taco shell crunch to the casserole. Salted corn or flour chips are my top choice, but feel free to add your favorite type of seasoned chip. The cheese helps to bind the chips together, creating a melty layer, like built-in nachos above the beef. Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack are used in the recipe for flavor and melt-ability. Pepperjack or Panela are tasty options, and sprinkling cotija or queso fresco on top are great choices too.
What toppings can you add to the casserole?
The options are endless! I like to start by layering on sour cream, shredded lettuce, black olives, thinly sliced radish, red onion, and diced tomatoes. For heat, add some salsa and fresh hot peppers. Serve with some lime wedges on the side for squeezing on the top.
Can taco casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, the ground beef mixture can be cooked and then refrigerated for up to 5 days before reheating. Simply add the beef to the baking dish and heat it in the oven until warm before adding the chips and cheese. Add the toppings right before serving.
Looking for Casserole Ideas? Try these!
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