This mouthwatering Loaded Taco Beef Casserole brings together the best of Mexican spices and Midwestern casserole comfort. Juicy taco-seasoned beef joins forces with beans, corn, and tortilla chips to create a satisfying one-dish meal that pleases the whole family.
At the heart of this casserole is a base of lean ground beef kicked up with a packet of bold taco seasoning. Salsa and tomato paste lend a tangy backbone of Mexican flavor. Black beans and sweet corn add texture, color, and vegetable goodness.
But what takes this dish over the top is the interplay between crispy tortilla chips, gooey cheddar cheese, rich beef, and fresh garnishes. It’s a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
The tortilla chips get layered in twice – both before and after baking – so you get a nice crunch throughout. Melty cheese pulls it all together, blanketing the meat and vegetables. Finally, sliced olives, green onions, and cilantro add brightness.
While every bite packs a big punch of flavor, this Loaded Taco Beef Casserole comes together with convenience in mind. Here are some tips for easy preparation:
- Use a packet of taco seasoning for instant Southwestern spice.
- Lean ground beef cooks up quick and provides hearty base.
- Black beans and frozen corn mean no chopping required.
- Crush store-bought tortilla chips for instant topping.
- Shredded cheddar adds familiar cheesy goodness.
- Purchase already sliced olives and chopped cilantro.
With a homemade taste but shortcut ingredients, this dish makes Mexican night easy. Serve it alongside rice, beans, or a crisp salad for a fast meal that never feels boring. Kids gobble up this fun fusion of Mexican flavors and comforting cheesy casserole.
This Loaded Taco Beef Casserole also travels well, making it a hit at potlucks. The single-pan build means easy transport from oven to party. Its kid-friendly appeal makes it a crowd pleaser.
Put a fun twist on Taco Tuesday or spice up a weeknight rotation with this crave-worthy casserole. With time-saving preparation and a tasty fusion of Tex-Mex flavors, the whole family is sure to cheer ¡Olé!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix 1 ounce
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips divided
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in taco seasoning and salsa. Simmer 2-3 minutes until thickened.
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In a bowl, mix together cooked beef, black beans, and corn.
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Spread 1 cup crushed tortilla chips in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with beef mixture.
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Sprinkle 1 cup cheddar cheese over top.
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Add remaining 1 cup tortilla chips, pressing lightly into cheese.
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Top with remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese.
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Bake 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
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Remove from oven and top with olives, green onions and cilantro (if using).
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Let sit 5 minutes before serving.
