Craving a mouthwatering meal that'll transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Texas? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with the ultimate Skillet Tex Mex Casserole - a one-pan wonder that promises to be your new family favorite! This irresistible dish combines the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of a hearty, cheesy casserole that'll have everyone begging for seconds. In just 40 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy meal that's not only incredibly delicious but also ridiculously easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 6 tortillas, cut into strips
Instructions
- Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or deep oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all ingredients.
- Add ground beef to the hot skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook the beef until it's completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef if needed, leaving a small amount for flavor and moisture.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning over the browned beef, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution and coat the meat completely.
- Add drained black beans and corn to the skillet, mixing gently with the seasoned beef to combine all ingredients.
- Pour salsa over the beef mixture, stirring to create an even, saucy consistency.
- Arrange the cut tortilla strips across the top of the mixture, creating a layer that will become crispy during baking.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla strips, covering the entire surface of the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and make cutting easier.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or additional salsa if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Skillet: Use a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet to ensure even cooking and a crispy top.
- Drain Meat Carefully: While draining excess fat, keep a small amount for added flavor and moisture.
- Seasoning is Key: Thoroughly mix the taco seasoning to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting consistency and flavor.
- Tortilla Tip: Cut tortillas into uniform strips for even coverage and maximum crispiness.
- Oven Placement: Position the skillet in the middle of the oven for consistent heating.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes to let flavors meld and make serving easier.
- Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with garnishes like fresh cilantro, sour cream, or extra salsa to personalize your dish.
- Make it Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you want an extra kick.
- Leftovers Hack: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
