Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious—Mr. D's Taco Casserole! This mouthwatering Mexican-inspired recipe combines all your favorite taco ingredients into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and gooey cheese, this dish is not just a meal; it's a fiesta on a plate! Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into the full recipe to discover how you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 2 cups tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup salsa
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook for 7-8 minutes until no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef using a colander. Return meat to the skillet.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning over the beef. Add 1/2 cup water and stir thoroughly, simmering for 2-3 minutes until the seasoning is fully incorporated.
- Add drained black beans and corn to the seasoned beef. Mix well and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
- Crush tortilla chips into smaller pieces, reserving some larger chips for topping.
- Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with half of the crushed tortilla chips.
- Spread the beef, bean, and corn mixture evenly over the chips.
- Pour salsa over the beef layer, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the entire casserole, covering all ingredients.
- Top with remaining tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and chips are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow casserole to set.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños before serving.
Tips
- Customize Your Protein: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative to suit your dietary preferences.
- Layering is Key: For the best flavor distribution, ensure you layer the ingredients evenly. This allows each bite to be packed with all the delicious flavors.
- Add Extra Veggies: Sneak in some diced bell peppers or onions when cooking the beef for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can elevate the flavor profile.
- Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown for that perfect finish.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t forget the finishing touches! Fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced jalapeños can add a burst of freshness and color to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 720kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 110mg
