Description
This Best Taco Bake is a delicious and comforting casserole that layers seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese with crispy tortilla strips. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it combines classic Mexican flavors baked into a cheesy, satisfying dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
Other
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 small flour tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream, for serving (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Allow the mixture to simmer for several minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors combine.
- Add Beans, Corn, and Salsa: Stir in the black beans, corn kernels, and salsa. Mix well and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Layer the Bake: In the prepared baking dish, start with a layer of tortilla strips, followed by a layer of the beef mixture, then a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the taco bake rest for a few minutes before serving. Top each portion with sour cream and sliced black olives if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Add jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicier kick.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for more heat.
- Crushed tortilla chips can replace the tortilla strips for added crunch and texture.
