Sizzling Taco Casserole With Tortillas Recipe: A Fiesta in One Dish

Comfort food reaches new heights with this mouthwatering taco casserole with tortillas that brings spicy Mexican-inspired flavors straight to your dinner table.

Layers of crispy tortillas, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese create a delectable meal everyone will love.

The robust blend of ingredients promises a satisfying experience for hungry crowds.

Zesty spices and fresh toppings add an extra punch of excitement to this crowd-pleasing dish.

Each bite delivers a perfect combination of textures and rich, bold flavors that dance across your palate.

This easy-to-prepare casserole transforms weeknight dinners from mundane to magnificent.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in this taco casserole recipe. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not automatically. To make it gluten-free, use corn tortillas and verify that your taco seasoning and salsa are gluten-free certified.

• How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on your salsa and taco seasoning choices. Use mild versions for less heat, or add jalapeños for extra kick. You can always control the spiciness by selecting ingredients carefully.

Taco Casserole With Tortillas Fresh Flavor Guide

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Pack a punch of flavor that brings everyone together with this hearty, cheesy taco casserole that satisfies both kids and adults.
• Quick and Hassle-Free Preparation: Whip up this delicious meal in just a few simple steps, using basic ingredients and minimal cooking skills required.
• Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adjust toppings and ingredients to suit different tastes, making it perfect for picky eaters or large family gatherings.
• One-Dish Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup with this all-in-one meal that combines protein, veggies, and cheese in a single baking dish.

What Goes In Taco Casserole With Tortillas

• Ground Beef: A hearty meat that forms the foundation of this flavorful taco casserole.

• Taco Seasoning: Adds classic Mexican-inspired spices and depth of flavor.
• Salsa, Diced Tomatoes with Chilies: Provide zesty moisture and a spicy kick to the dish.

• Corn Tortillas: Create a traditional Mexican-style base for the casserole layers.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese, Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: Melt beautifully to create a creamy, gooey texture.

• Black Beans: Add protein and a soft texture to the meat mixture.
• Lettuce, Fresh Tomatoes: Offer a crisp, fresh topping for the casserole.
• Sour Cream, Jalapeños: Provide cool and spicy finishing touches.

How To Make Taco Casserole With Tortillas

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F, getting it ready for our delicious Mexican-inspired feast.

Step 2: Brown The Meat

Sizzle ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it turns a beautiful golden brown.

• Taco seasoning
• Diced tomatoes with chilies
• Black beans
• Salsa

Let this mixture simmer and mingle for 5 minutes, creating a flavor explosion.

Step 3: Create The First Tortilla Layer

Grab a 9×13 baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking oil.

Lay down the first batch of tortillas, covering the bottom completely.

Step 4: Add The Meat Mixture

Spread half of your zesty beef mixture evenly across the tortilla layer, making sure every inch gets some love.

Step 5: Sprinkle Cheese

Generously shower the first layer with a hearty handful of shredded cheese.

Step 6: Build The Second Layer

Repeat the process with another set of tortillas, the remaining beef mixture, and another generous cheese blanket.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbly, melted masterpiece.

Step 8: Dress It Up

• Crisp lettuce
• Juicy tomatoes
• Creamy sour cream
• Spicy jalapeños

Serve immediately and watch everyone dive in!

Tips For Great Taco Casserole Results

• Ensure tortillas cover the entire bottom of the dish to create a solid base for your casserole.
• Remove as much fat as possible from ground beef to prevent a greasy texture and maintain a cleaner flavor profile.
• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help cheese set and make cutting easier.
• Adjust taco seasoning and salsa heat level to suit your family's taste preferences.
• Add cold toppings like lettuce and tomatoes just before serving to preserve their crisp texture and vibrant flavor.

Twists For Taco Casserole With Tortillas

• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with crumbled firm tofu, plant-based ground meat, or black beans for a meat-free version that's high in protein.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure taco seasoning is gluten-free to make the casserole safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute tortillas with thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower rice as a base, reducing carbohydrate content while maintaining the classic taco flavor profile.
• Spicy Lovers' Version: Add extra chopped jalapeños, use hot salsa, and incorporate pepper jack cheese to increase the heat and create a more intense flavor experience.

Taco Casserole Serving Inspiration

• Fresh Family Feast: Serve this zesty taco casserole with vibrant side dishes that complement its rich flavors.
• Fiesta Plate Companions: Pair with cilantro-lime rice or Mexican street corn for a complete southwestern meal that adds extra texture and freshness.
• Cool and Creamy Crunch: Top with crisp chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream to balance the warm, spicy casserole and add refreshing contrast.
• Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Cut into smaller squares and serve as an appetizer during parties, with tortilla chips on the side for guests who want extra crunch and dipping options.

Taco Casserole Leftover Storage Tips

• Transfer cooled casserole to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, keeping flavors fresh and ingredients intact.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring no freezer burn damages the delicious layers.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until thoroughly warm, stirring halfway through.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, cover casserole with foil to prevent drying, warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely, maintaining original texture and taste.

Taco Casserole With Tortillas Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Mexican-inspired taco casserole layers spicy ground beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas into a hearty family dinner. Comfort meets flavor in this quick, satisfying meal that brings zest and warmth to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained

Vegetable and Aromatics:

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese and Tortilla Base:

• 8–10 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)

Optional Toppings:

• 1 ripe avocado, diced or sliced
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Fresh or pickled jalapeños
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced fresh tomatoes
• Chopped green onions
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Hot sauce

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F, creating an ideal environment for melding flavors and melting cheese.
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, carefully draining unnecessary fat to maintain a lean texture.
3. Enhance the meat with taco seasoning, incorporating diced tomatoes with chilies, black beans, and salsa for a robust flavor profile.
4. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing spices to marry and intensify.
5. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by lightly greasing the surface to prevent sticking.
6. Create the first foundation layer by arranging tortillas across the bottom of the dish, ensuring complete coverage.
7. Distribute half of the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the tortilla base, creating a hearty initial layer.
8. Generously sprinkle the first portion of shredded cheese, ensuring complete coverage of the meat mixture.
9. Repeat the layering process with remaining tortillas, creating a second substantial tier.
10. Pour the remaining beef mixture over the new tortilla layer, maintaining consistent distribution.
11. Complete the casserole by topping with the final layer of shredded cheese, promising a golden, melted finish.
12. Slide the assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese transforms into a bubbly, golden blanket.
13. Once removed, garnish with crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, creamy sour cream, and spicy jalapeños for a vibrant presentation.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with lean turkey or plant-based crumbles for a healthier protein option that keeps the dish light and nutritious.
• Customize heat levels by choosing mild, medium, or spicy taco seasoning and salsa to match personal spice preferences.
• Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn to boost nutritional value and create more texture in the casserole.
• Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free version that maintains the authentic Mexican-inspired flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 431 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg