Introduction

Beef Taco Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines all the flavors of classic tacos into a comforting baked casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a family favorite that everyone will enjoy.

Beef Taco Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
6 to 8 tortillas or 3 cups tortilla chips

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Stir in the taco seasoning according to the packet instructions, usually with some water, and simmer until the mixture thickens.
Step 3: In a baking dish, layer half of the tortillas or chips, then spread half of the seasoned beef over them, followed by half of the cheese.
Step 4: Repeat the layering with the remaining tortillas or chips, beef, and cheese.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, or chopped cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add diced onions and bell peppers to the ground beef while cooking.
Swap tortillas with crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.
Use a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack and pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Include black beans or corn in the layers for extra nutrition and color.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative and cooks similarly. Just adjust seasoning as needed to suit your taste.

Beef Taco Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 81 reviews

This hearty Beef Taco Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas for a deliciously easy dinner. Layers of flavorful taco meat and gooey cheese baked to bubbly perfection make it a crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknights.

Author: Nora
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Mixture

1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning (about 2 oz)
1/2 cup water (for taco seasoning)

Main Ingredients

6 large flour tortillas or 3 cups tortilla chips, broken
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, sour cream, salsa

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and water; simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld.
Layer the Casserole: Place a layer of tortillas or tortilla chips at the bottom of the casserole dish. Spoon half of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas, then sprinkle with one cup of shredded cheese. Repeat with another layer of tortillas, the remaining beef, and top with the remaining cheese.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Serve: Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like jalapeños, green onions, sour cream, or salsa if desired.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free variation.
Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture and nutrition.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat well in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: beef casserole, taco casserole, easy dinner, Mexican casserole, ground beef recipe, cheesy casserole