Try this Easy Taco Casserole recipe for a quick and flavorful dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, crunchy tortilla chips, and melted cheese, this Mexican-inspired casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Layered and baked to perfection, it’s an ideal dish for family meals or entertaining guests. Serve with guacamole, sour cream, and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients for Easy Taco Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips, divided
- 4 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
- 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the onion into small pieces and shred the cheese. Set these aside for later use.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and crumbly, which should take about five to seven minutes. Once cooked, drain and discard any excess liquid to avoid a greasy casserole.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Add the salsa, chopped onion, mayonnaise, chili powder, and ground cumin to the cooked beef. Stir everything together until well combined. The mayonnaise adds a creamy texture while the spices provide a burst of flavor.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Remove the skillet from the heat. Spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Next, sprinkle half of the crushed tortilla chips over the beef mixture, followed by half of the shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining beef mixture and ending with the rest of the cheese.
6. Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly around the edges. The foil helps to keep the dish moist and ensures the cheese melts evenly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve with a dollop of guacamole and your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to beef and works well in this recipe. It provides a leaner option while still delivering delicious flavor.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it with aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
4. What can I use instead of tortilla chips?
If you don’t have tortilla chips, you can use crushed corn chips or even broken taco shells as a substitute. They will still provide that satisfying crunch.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the tortilla chips and all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Double-check the labels to avoid any gluten-containing additives.
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